May: The Month of Mary

Each year, Catholics around the world set aside the month of May to honour the Blessed Virgin Mary in a special way. This beautiful tradition, which has been around for centuries, is a time for us to grow closer to Mary, reflect on her vital role in the mystery of salvation, and ask for her intercession as we follow her Son, Jesus.

Why May?

The idea of dedicating the month of May to Mary goes back to the 13th century, but it really took off in the 18th and 19th centuries, especially in Catholic schools run by the Jesuits. They promoted May as a time to focus on Mary’s example and to deepen Marian devotion among students. Over time, this practice spread across the Church and became a treasured part of Catholic life.

May is a time of spring, renewal, and new life—symbols that align well with Mary's purity, her role in bringing forth Jesus, and her constant nurturing of the Church. Nature itself, blooming and vibrant during this month, mirrors the spiritual beauty and grace of the Mother of God. By dedicating May to Mary, the Church invites the faithful to recognise her special place in the economy of salvation and to imitate her virtues of humility, obedience, and unwavering faith.

Mary’s Special Role

Catholics don’t worship Mary, but her role as the Mother of God (Theotokos) and her co-operation in the divine plan of redemption make her worthy of special honour. Throughout Scripture and Church Tradition, Mary is presented as the model of the perfect disciple. From the moment of the Annunciation to her presence at the foot of the Cross, Mary showed total trust in God’s plan. She is our spiritual mother and a model for how we can live our own lives—with humility, courage, and love.

We also believe Mary continues to pray for us in heaven. Asking for her intercession is like going to a loving mother who brings our needs straight to her Son. This is why Mary is so important in our prayer life—she helps us draw closer to Jesus, not away from Him.

Ways to Celebrate May as Mary’s Month

There are many simple and meaningful ways to honour Mary during May, whether at home, in church, or in your community. Here are a few ideas:

1. Pray the Rosary: The rosary is one of the most powerful prayers we have. It’s a beautiful way to meditate on the life of Jesus through Mary’s eyes. Try to pray it more often during May—maybe even every day. You are most welcome to join with our Rosary Group in praying the Rosary each day of May at 3pm in St. Patrick’s & St. Brigid’s Church.

2. Create a Marian Altar: Set up a small space at home with a statue or image of Mary, along with flowers and candles. It’s a great way to keep her close in your daily life and to encourage prayer, especially as a family. You may also wish to stop at Our Lady’s Chapel in St. Patrick’s & St. Brigid’s which contains a beautiful altar sculpted to represent the Mysteries of the Rosary. Take some time to look around our churches to find many of the beautiful stained glass and statues dedicated to Our Lady.

3. Practice Mary’s Virtues: Try to imitate Mary in your everyday life—her kindness, patience, and willingness to say “yes” to God. Doing small acts of love, especially for those in need, is one of the best ways to honour her.

4. Consecration to Mary: Some Catholics choose May as a time to consecrate themselves to Mary, offering their lives to her so she can lead them more perfectly to Jesus.


Celebrating Mary during May isn’t about doing something extra just for the sake of tradition—it’s about deepening our faith. Mary always leads us to Jesus. When we honour her, we grow in love for Christ and become more aware of God’s presence in our lives.

Let’s make this month a time to connect with our Heavenly Mother in a more personal way. She is always ready to help, to listen, and to guide us on the path to her Son.

THE MAGNIFICAT

My soul glorifies the Lord.

My spirit rejoices in God my Saviour;

He looks on his servant in her lowliness;

Hence forth all generations will call me blessed.

The Almighty works marvels for me.

Holy is his name.

His mercy is from age to age,

on those who fear him.

He puts forth his arm in strength,

and scatters the proud-hearted.

He casts the mighty from their thrones

and raises the lowly.

He fills the hungry with good things,

sends the rich away empty.

He protects Israel, his servant,

remembering his mercy,

the mercy He promised to our fathers,

to Abraham and his sons for ever.

Church of the Immaculate Conception, Glenshesk