For centuries, the Catholic Church has set aside May to honor Mary, Mother of God—not just one day in May, but the entire month.

In Ancient Rome, May was dedicated to Flora, the goddess of blooms, or blossoms. They celebrated ludi florals, or floral games, at the end of April and asked the intercession of Flora for all that blooms.

It's a long-standing tradition to crown the statue of Mary during May, a custom known as May Crowning. “May Crowning” is a Catholic devotion recognizing Mary as Queen of Heaven and Earth. As May is considered the season of the beginning of new life, we participate in Mary’s crowning to acknowledge her role in Our Lord lifting us out of the long, cold days of winter and firmly planting our hearts in the warm and promising soil of spring.

May Crownings in our Parishes:

• On Thursday, May 2 at 1:30 p.m., the SJNRA pre-school will hold a May crowning at the St. Lawrence Church Grotto in the courtyard.
• On Sunday, May 5 at 10:30 a.m. Mass, the First Holy Communion Class will hold a May crowning at St. Boniface Church during Mass. 

All are welcome to attend!