Background Notes

May has traditionally been one of the months set aside for devotion to Mary. Many communities celebrate a May crowning of Mary’s statue and other devotions in honor of the Mother of God. Mary loved and trusted God. By her 'yes’ she helped fulfill God’s plan of salvation for us. Mary is a model for us to imitate.


"Mary, Mother of God" Prayer Celebration Notes

Focus		Turning to Mary in prayer and trust
Materials Needed		Prayer table, Bible, candle, statue or picture of Mary, music, flowers
Reading		Luke 3:41–52
Music		"I Say 'Yes,' Lord/ Digo 'Sí,' Señor," "Let us Go Rejoicing," [instrumental], Blest Are We Music CD 6; "My Soul Rejoices," Owen Alstott (OCP Publications); "Magnificat," Bernadette Farrell (OCP Publications)
Preparation		Before the prayer celebration, print out and photocopy the liturgy, "Mary –Mother of God," for participants. Select a leader, Scripture reader, and another reader. Discuss Mary’s life on earth with Jesus. Emphasize the various names by which the Church honors Mary, such as Queen of Peace and Queen of Heaven. Introduce the practice of meditation. Guided meditation encourages us to consider our feelings within the context of a Scripture story or spiritual reflection. This technique enables us to focus on our relationship with God through quiet reflection.
Adaptations		Have participants bring in flowers to display with the statue of Mary on the prayer table.
Additional Materials		"I Say 'Yes,' Lord/ Digo 'Sí,' Señor," "Let us Go Rejoicing," [instrumental] Blest Are We Music CD 6 Call RCL Benziger at 1-877-ASK-4-RCL (1-877-275-4725). ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36657-3 Blest Are We Song Book Words and melody for children; contains music for levels 1-8 ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36617-4 Blest Are We Accompaniment Book Contains accompaniment music for levels 1-8 ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36618-2