The Catholic Church dedicates the month of May to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God. While Mother’s Day celebrates mothers for one day, the Church gives us 31 days for growing closer to THE mother… our spiritual mother!
Do you feel drawn to deepen your devotion to Mary?
Here are five simple ways to grow closer to Our Blessed Mother during the month of May.
1. Wear the Miraculous Medal
In 1830, the Blessed Mother appeared to St. Catherine Labouré in Paris and asked that a medal be made according to the vision she revealed. This request led to the Miraculous Medal, which has since brought countless graces and conversions.
The inscription, “O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee,” can become your constant prayer.
When you wear the Miraculous Medal, you:
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Invite Mary’s intercession into your daily life.
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Remember her presence and protection.
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Give witness to your faith in a quiet, visible way.
2. Enroll in the Brown Scapular
The Brown Scapular marks a relationship, not just a ritual.
In the 13th century, Our Lady gave the scapular to St. Simon Stock. She promised her special care to those who wear it faithfully. Over time, the Church has clarified that this devotion is not about superstition, but about living a life rooted in faith, prayer, and trust in Mary.
When you enroll in the Brown Scapular, you commit to:
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Living Marian virtues like humility and purity.
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Staying close to the sacraments.
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Trusting in Mary’s spiritual protection.
Many Catholics find that the scapular keeps them aware of Mary’s presence throughout the day.
3. Turn to Our Lady of Guadalupe
Our Lady of Guadalupe speaks directly to the modern world.
In 1531 she appeared to St. Juan Diego in Mexico and left her image on his tilma. This miraculous image inspired literally millions of people to convert to Catholicism.
Her words still comfort us: “Am I not here, I who am your mother?” She will certainly intercede for your fallen-away friend or relative to return to the Church.
Today, Catholics honor Our Lady of Guadalupe as the Patroness of the Americas and the Patroness of the Unborn.
This May, you can:
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Ask for her intercession for the protection of life.
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Bring her your family struggles and challenges.
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Reflect on her message of dignity and hope.
4. Pray the Rosary Daily
The Church consistently recommends that we all pray the Rosary, and for good reason.
Through the Rosary, you walk with Mary through the life of Christ. Each mystery invites you to meditate on the Gospel, going deeper and deeper over time.
Praying the Rosary daily can:
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Bring you peace during hard times.
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Deepen your understanding of Scripture.
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Strengthen your spiritual discipline.
If a whole daily Rosary feels like too much, start with one decade. Build up from there.
5. Read About Mary (and Learn from Her)
You can’t love someone you don’t know.
Spiritual reading is an essential way to grow in Marian devotion. Reading books about Mary strengthens your devotion by helping you understand her role in God’s plan of salvation and her virtues to imitate.
Consider reading:
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“True Devotion to Mary” by St. Louis de Montfort.
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“The World’s First Love” by Fulton Sheen.
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“Redemptoris Mater” by Pope St. John Paul II.
Even a few pages each day can deepen your relationship with Our Lady.
Start Small and Stay Faithful
You don’t need to do all five of these devotions at once.
Choose one or two that resonate with you. Practice them faithfully. As they begin to bear fruit, you can gradually add more.
Mary always leads you to Jesus. Each step toward her brings you closer to Him.
