May Crowning

The Catholic Church has, as a part of its tradition, the special devotion to the Blessed Mother of Jesus.  Mary is recognized as “one of us,” a human person, and a model of faith and discipleship for all Christians to imitate.  When Jesus, from the cross, entrusted the Apostle, St. John, with the care of His mother, Catholics believe that Mary became our mother as well.  Catholics do not worship Mary or consider her to be a goddess.  Catholics recognize that mothers can have great influence over their children, and as such, we pray to Mary to intercede with her Son on our behalf.  During the month of May it is a tradition in the church to honor Mary, our mother, in a special way, by placing crowns of spring blossoms on the head of a statue that depicts her image.  This is a beautiful ceremony wherein the participants give thanks to Mary for bringing Jesus into the world, and pray for her guidance along the path that will lead to her Son.

St. Ambrose School honors this tradition with a May Crowning before one of the weekly all school Masses during this lovely spring month.  In 2012,the event was held in the new Fatima Grotto that was blessed by Bishop Edward Rice.  Students process with stems of flowers that they put into a vase in front of the statue of Mary.  One student, representing the whole community, is chosen to place the crown.  During the Mass, the students pray for all mothers, and all the women in their lives who love and nurture them.  The May Crowning is a highlight of the pro-life culture of St. Ambrose that teaches the students to honor and respect all life as a gift from God.  Below are images from the 2013 May Crowning, which was held in the church.