Mary, Our Queen

On the first Sunday of May, several children in our parish receive their First Holy Communion. Along with that special event we also have the crowning of the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. We sing that beautiful hymn, “Bring Flowers of the Rarest”. Some of the words in that hymn say: “O Mary we crown thee with blossoms today, Queen of the Angels and Queen of the May.”

The month of May is a month that is dedicated to Mary in a special way. Throughout history Mary has been very much a part of Christian devotion. In times of war, famine and oppression people have turned to Mary for help. On the cross Christ gave Mary to St. John to be his mother. For Christians, John is the symbol of those who believe in Christ. In baptism we become children of God, brother and sisters of Jesus Christ. We, too, become children of Mary. We believe that Mary has a special place before God in Heaven and we pray: “Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death.” Mary’s faith and experiences have made her a source of hope and strength for suffering people throughout history. The apparitions of Mary brought hope to people who struggled. In these apparitions God was showing His love and mercy for His people. God is still doing great things in and through Mary. When times are difficult it is good to know that this country is dedicated to Mary under the title of “The Immaculate Conception”. In the “Memorare” we are reminded that, “No one who ever fled to your protection, implored your help or sought your intercession was left unaided.”

The “Rosary” is a beautiful and powerful prayer reminding us of the power of Mary before the throne of God. Even one “Hail Mary” reminds us that our Heavenly Mother cares of us and is bringing our concerns to God.

“O Mary we crown thee with blossoms today –

Queen of the Angels and Queen of the May.”

I want to share a personal thank you to all the people who helped with our fourth annual Tastes at Pawleys. Thank you to the executive committee Dana Arneman, Annette Austin, Sherby & Jim McGrath, Caroline Heimberger, Jim McMahon, Denise & Tom Lee, Ellen & Scott Sullivan, Mak Kelliher, Joe Maloney, Sondra Sutherland, Alicia Fata, Barbara & Denis Gagne, and Jann Walker, for all their time and dedication. Thank you to our parishioners who made sponsorships and those who volunteered their time the day of the event. Thank God for the beautiful  weather, and to all those who came to sample the wonderful foods in support of the Father Pat’s Lunch Kitchen and Friendship Place of Georgetown.

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