The month of May is traditionally dedicated to Mary in many cultures for it is considered the season of the beginning of new life. Mary, being the Mother of our Savior, is thus associated with springtime. These roots run deep. In ancient Greek culture, May was dedicated to Artemis, the goddess of fruitfulness. In Roman culture, May was dedicated to Flora, the goddess of blossoms. The Romans celebrated, “ludi florales,” literally, “floral games,” at the end of April, asking the intercession of Flora for all that blooms. This later led to the medieval practice of ritually expelling winter. May 1st was considered the beginning of growth.
Since the 13th century, both Mary and the month of May were greeted, welcomed and celebrated on specific days of the month. Later, the whole month of May became dedicated to Mary. Each day was organized with special devotions to Mary, a custom originating in Italy. Thus we see over time that people were able to pass from a pagan to a Christian mindset through a profound change in their beliefs and their system of moral values without losing vital contact with their old social tradition, which was sublimated and transformed, but not destroyed or lost. May devotions spread widely during the 19th century, a century well known for its monthly devotions (the Sacred Heart of Jesus in June; the Rosary in October).
Here are links to Marian prayers and activities:
Know of my continued prayers for you as we keep the faith,
David J. Conrad
Since the 13th century, both Mary and the month of May were greeted, welcomed and celebrated on specific days of the month. Later, the whole month of May became dedicated to Mary. Each day was organized with special devotions to Mary, a custom originating in Italy. Thus we see over time that people were able to pass from a pagan to a Christian mindset through a profound change in their beliefs and their system of moral values without losing vital contact with their old social tradition, which was sublimated and transformed, but not destroyed or lost. May devotions spread widely during the 19th century, a century well known for its monthly devotions (the Sacred Heart of Jesus in June; the Rosary in October).
Here are links to Marian prayers and activities:
Know of my continued prayers for you as we keep the faith,
David J. Conrad
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