May has always been a special month for Christians. It is the month when the Church, in a particular way, turns its gaze to Mary, the Mother of Jesus. In this context, the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, one of the oldest and most venerated Marian shrines in Rome, has launched the initiative "A Month with Mary," a program of spiritual activities that will extend throughout the month.
This basilica, which according to tradition was built after a miraculous dream of Pope Liberius, holds centuries of Marian devotion within its walls. Now, it opens its doors—both physical and digital—so that believers from around the world can join this celebration.
The initiative began on the night of May 1 with the recitation of the Rosary in the atrium of the church, presided over by Monsignor Luis Manuel Herrera, vicar of the archpriest of the basilica. The live broadcast on Telepace and social media allowed people from everywhere to participate from their homes.
Activities for the Whole Community
Throughout the month, the faithful can join various Marian devotions. The Rosary will be prayed twice a day: at 11:30 a.m. in the Chapel of the Crucifix and at 5:00 p.m. in the Pauline Chapel. This double opportunity aims to accommodate the schedules of those who work or have other responsibilities.
On Tuesday, May 19, at 7:00 p.m. (Rome time), the second session of Lectio Mariae will take place, a space for biblical reflection on the figure of Mary. This gathering, organized in collaboration with the Cortile dei Gentili Foundation, will be titled "Mary's Song," referring to the Magnificat, the hymn of praise that the Virgin uttered during her visit to her cousin Elizabeth.
"My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior" (Luke 1:46-47, NIV).
Additionally, on Monday, May 25, a special Eucharist will be celebrated near the reliquary containing fragments of wood from the Holy Cradle, the manger where the baby Jesus was laid in Bethlehem. This relic, known as the Sacra Culla, is one of the basilica's most precious treasures and attracts pilgrims from around the world.
Floral Offerings and Songs in Honor of Mary
As is tradition in May, the basilica also invites devotees to bring floral offerings to the Virgin. Flowers are a symbol of love and gratitude, and in many places, crowns or bouquets are placed before Marian images. At Saint Mary Major, spaces will be arranged for the faithful to deposit their flowers and special songs will be raised during the celebrations.
The program also includes moments of sacred music, with choirs performing traditional Marian hymns. These songs, which have been part of Christian liturgy for centuries, help create an atmosphere of recollection and praise.
An Invitation to Personal and Communal Prayer
Beyond the scheduled activities, the "A Month with Mary" initiative seeks to foster personal prayer and encounter with God through the intercession of the Virgin. The basilica encourages the faithful to dedicate a few minutes each day to meditate on the mysteries of the Rosary or read Gospel passages that speak of Mary.
In a fast-paced world, where it is often difficult to find time for spirituality, this proposal is a reminder that faith is nurtured in constancy and community. As the Gospel of John says: "Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene" (John 19:25, NIV). Mary was present in the most difficult moments of her Son's life, and today she continues to accompany the Church on its pilgrimage.
Final Reflection
What place does Mary hold in your spiritual life? This month, the Basilica of Saint Mary Major invites you to rediscover her presence. Whether you join in person or online, may this time be an opportunity to deepen your faith and feel the embrace of a Mother who never abandons her children.
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