As we continue our observance of the Month of Mary, one of the Marian traditions we have highlighted during the Easter season is the ancient antiphon Regina Caeli, whose title means “Queen of Heaven.” This joyful hymn dates back to at least the 12th century and became widely known throughout Europe during the Middle Ages. Tradition even tells of Pope Gregory the Great hearing angels sing the opening words during a procession in Rome during a time of plague, though the historical origins of the hymn are likely earlier and developed gradually within the prayer life of the Church. READ MORE

Earlier this month our parish participated in a unique tradition of the Roman Catholic Church: the May Crowning. Our school celebrated on May 1st with students wearing their finest clothes, including first communicants in the attire they wore for their recent First Communion Mass. These second graders, along with the eighth graders—soon to be confirmed and graduated—led the proceedings, including a procession, presentation of flowers, a Litany of Mary, and ultimately the crowning of Mary by two eighth graders chosen by their peers for exhibiting qualities associated with Mary. Our parish crowning was more modest, but included both English- and Spanish-speaking members of the parish gathered around the Marian statue outside the ELC. Siblings who recently received First Communion and Confirmation crowned Mary, and her crown will remain throughout the month of May. READ MORE

As we enter in to the month of May, our attention turns in a special way to the Blessed Virgin Mary—Mother of God, model of discipleship, and, for us, our beloved patron. In a season marked by new life, blooming flowers, and lengthening days, the Church’s devotion to Mary feels especially fitting. Just as the earth brings forth beauty and life, so too Mary brought forth Christ, the source of all grace. READ MORE