May Crowning: What It Is and Why We Do It

At its simplest, 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. But this simple ceremony carries deep meaning for the Catholic faith.

May has been Mary’s month since the medieval period, when May was considered the end of winter and the start of a new season of growth. It’s a time for new beginnings and the chance to begin with gratitude and devotion.

There are many reasons she 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 the universe. And of course, she is the most important woman of our faith, and our spiritual mother.

It’s our hope and prayer that this May, you’ll celebrate May Crowning in your own parish or home, and have a special encounter with Christ through the Virgin Mary.