At its simplest, a May Crowning is a ritual celebrated in the month of May where an image or statue of Mary is crowned with a wreath of flowers and honored as the Queen of Heaven and the Mother of God.
In medieval times, winter ended at the start of May because it was considered a time of new growth and beginnings. During this time, the “Tricesimum” (“30-Day Devotion to Mary” or “Lady Month”) period began, when special devotions to the Mother of God started in May. This practice spread from Italy all around the world.
There are many reasons Mary is considered the “Queen of Heaven.” She was a perfect follower of Christ, and so is considered the crown of creation. She is also the Mother of the Son of God, Jesus, who is the King of Israel and the universe. And of course, she is the most important woman of our faith, and our spiritual mother.
Note that we do not view Mary as a goddess, nor do we worship Mary; she is honored or venerated as the mother of Jesus, the most important woman in our Catholic faith.
Let us remember in a special way all of our grandmothers, our mothers, our step mothers, our God mothers and all people who give birth to goodness, love and light in the world.
