The Church has designated May as the Month of Mary. Although we celebrate Our Lady all year, we commemorate her in a special way this month.

Here are five ways to honor Mary during this time.

1. Participate in a May crowning.

Many parishes invite children to crown a statue of Mary with a wreath of flowers. Some families practice this same tradition at home. The crowning can take place any day during the month.

2. Pray the Rosary each day.

If you aren’t already saying your beads daily, May is a great time to take up this practice. Shop our collection of beautiful rosaries and tap into the power of Our Lady’s intercession.

3. Visit a Marian shrine.

Our country is full of Marian shrines! The National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion in Wisconsin is the only Marian apparition site in the United States that’s approved by the Church. The National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche in St. Augustine, Florida, is another must-see, among many others.

4. Perform acts of mercy.

Our Lady constantly reached out to people in need, whether it was her cousin St. Elizabeth or wedding guests who ran out of wine. Imitate her charity this month. For example, you could volunteer at a local food pantry or visit a shut-in senior.

5. Read a book about Our Lady.

One of our favorites is “The World’s First Love” by Fulton J. Sheen. “The Glories of Mary” by Saint Alphonsus Liguori is another great choice. Read and reflect on Mary’s virtues and apply them to your own life.

Now, more than ever, our world needs the Blessed Mother. Let’s double our devotion to her this month, so that others will be inspired to come to her.

Gabor Kerekes