May is the Month of Our Lady - a time to reflect on the incredible story of the Blessed Mother and to draw closer to her.
Countless saints and influential Catholic figures have emphasized the importance of devotion to Mary in deepening our relationship with Jesus. As Pope St. John Paul II once said:
“To succeed in your intentions, entrust yourselves to the Blessed Virgin Mary always, but especially in moments of difficulty and darkness. From Mary we learn to surrender to God’s will in all things. From Mary we learn to trust even when all hope seems gone. From Mary we learn to love Christ, her Son and the Son of God… Learn from her to be always faithful, to trust that God’s word to you will be fulfilled, and that nothing is impossible with God.”
So how can we grow in our love for Mary this May? Here are five powerful Marian devotions to deepen your faith:
1. The Rosary
One of the most beloved and accessible Marian devotions, the Rosary was given to St. Dominic by Our Lady in the 1200s. Through the repetition of simple prayers and meditation on the Gospel-based mysteries of Christ’s life, the Rosary becomes a deeply impactful way to grow closer to both Mary and Jesus.
2. The Brown Scapular
Given to St. Simon Stock in the 1200s, the Brown Scapular came with Our Lady’s promise: “Anyone dying in this habit shall not suffer eternal fire.” Worn around the neck, the scapular serves as a daily reminder of our commitment to faith and Marian devotion.
3. The Miraculous Medal
This devotion stems from Our Lady’s apparitions to St. Catherine Labouré in 1830. Mary instructed: “Have a medal struck upon this model. Those who wear it will receive great graces, especially if they wear it around their neck.” The medal is a beautiful and tangible expression of trust in Mary’s intercession.
4. The Angelus
Traditionally prayed at 6 a.m., noon, and 6 p.m., the Angelus commemorates the Annunciation and Mary’s “yes” to God’s will. Even choosing one time a day to pause and pray this devotion can help you remain connected to Our Lady throughout your daily routine.
5. Spiritual Reading About Mary
While not a specific devotion, spiritual reading can open your heart to Mary’s role in salvation history. Titles like Mary of Nazareth and The Maiden of Nazareth are rich resources to bring into prayer and reflection, helping you see Our Lady through new eyes and grow in love for her.
May this month bring you closer to Mary—and through her, ever closer to Jesus.
