Mary, Our Blessed Mother: A Heartfelt Tribute for the Month of May

“From this day all generations will call me blessed.” – Luke 1:48

The month of May holds a special place in the heart of the Catholic Church—it is the month of Mary. For centuries, Catholics around the world have dedicated May to honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary with love, devotion, and joyful celebration. This tradition springs from our desire to draw closer to the woman who bore Jesus, our Savior, and who continues to guide and intercede for us as our spiritual mother.

 

Why Mary Matters

Mary is best known for her humble and courageous “yes” to God. When the angel Gabriel told her she would bear the Messiah, her response—“Let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38)—became one of the most powerful statements of faith in Scripture. She accepted God’s calling with grace and obedience, becoming the mother of Jesus, the Savior of the world.

Beyond that moment, Mary’s life reflects quiet strength, deep faith, and unwavering devotion to God. She stood by her Son from the cradle to the cross, and in doing so, became an enduring symbol of faithful discipleship.

Why May is Mary’s Month

The connection between Mary and May dates back to the Middle Ages, when Christians in Europe celebrated the arrival of spring with festivities honoring life and beauty. Over time, these celebrations took on a spiritual character, and Mary—who gave life to the Son of God—became the natural focus of these springtime devotions.

May, with its blossoming flowers and renewal of life, is a fitting time to reflect on Mary’s role in salvation history. Her “fiat,” her unwavering “yes” to God, made possible the Incarnation. She carried Christ in her womb, nurtured Him in His youth, followed Him throughout His ministry, and stood beneath the Cross at His Passion.

Mary's Role in Our Lives

Mary is not just a historical figure—she is our spiritual mother. As Jesus hung on the cross, He gave her to us through the words spoken to the beloved disciple: “Behold your mother” (John 19:27). Since then, the Church has turned to her in times of joy and sorrow, trust and trial. Her quiet strength, unwavering trust, and profound obedience to God’s will are virtues we are all called to emulate. She is not only the mother of Jesus but also our spiritual mother, interceding for us and helping us grow closer to Christ.

Mary continues to intercede for us with maternal love. Countless saints, from St. Bernard of Clairvaux to St. John Paul II, have testified to her powerful intercession and her role in drawing them closer to Christ.

Mary Leads Us to Jesus

Everything about Mary points to her Son. She never seeks attention for herself, but always guides us to “do whatever He tells you” (John 2:5). She listens, she believes, she obeys, and she follows. In every mystery of the Rosary, she teaches us something about trusting in God’s plan, even when we don’t understand it. Her life was not free from suffering, but she endured with grace and hope. By turning our hearts toward Mary, our Mother, we are turning our hearts more deeply toward Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

As we journey through May, let us ask Mary to intercede for us, to guide us, and to help us grow in faith, hope, and love. May she be honored in our homes, our hearts, and our lives—not just in May, but always.

Mary, Mother of God, pray for us.

Queen of Heaven, guide us to your Son.

Our Lady of Grace, intercede for us.