“She is that woman who rejoiced in the presence of God, who treasured everything in her heart, and who let herself be pierced by the sword. Mary is the saint among the saints, blessed above all others. She teaches us the way of holiness and she walks ever at our side. She does not let us remain fallen and at times she takes us into her arms without judging us.”

~ Pope Francis, Gaudete et Exsultate, no. 176

May is a month of springtime and new life blooming. It is fitting then that this is the month we dedicate to Our Blessed Mother Mary. This is an age-old custom spanning centuries. We are not certain of the origins of celebrating these Marian devotions in May, but there are writings describing special devotions to Mary in springtime from as early as the 13th century. But it wasn’t until the 1700s that these celebrations and practices concentrated in May gained widespread popularity. It was the Jesuits in Rome who promulgated this month of devotions. The faithful honored Mary with pilgrimages, stops at churches dedicated to the Blessed Virgin, Marian prayers and hymns, and processions. 

The practice of honoring Mary during the month of May is not confined to churches. In fact, it is right to bring these devotions into our domestic churches, our homes, with a May Altar, a home May crowning, and special attention to recitation of the Rosary this month. Here are some ways to bring these beautiful customs into your own home and into your homeschooling.