Religious Education

Our Lady of Fatima: A Message of Peace, Prayer, and Hope

As we step into the beautiful month of May, our Catholic tradition invites us to turn our hearts toward the Blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus and our spiritual mother. This special month is a time to deepen our love for Mary through prayer, reflection, and acts of devotion.

May has long been considered the "Month of Mary" in the Catholic Church. This tradition dates back centuries and is rooted in the natural beauty of spring, symbolizing new life and hope. Just as flowers bloom and the earth is renewed, we honor Mary as the "Mystical Rose" and the one who brought new life to the world by bearing Jesus Christ. 

In many parishes and schools, it's customary to create a "May Altar" adorned with flowers and a statue or image of Mary. Children often participate in a "May Crowning," placing a crown of blossoms on Mary's head to show our love and reverence for her. 

Here within our own Parish there will be a special Marian Procession held this Saturday (May 10th) at 5pm in the school yard.  All students and their families are invited to participate. 

In this cherished tradition, a beautifully adorned statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary will be reverently carried through the school grounds. As participants process together, they will pray the Rosary, sing hymns, and offer flowers to honor Our Lady. This event provides a meaningful opportunity for our school community to come together in faith and devotion, reflecting on Mary's example of love and obedience to God.  

One of the most significant Marian feasts in May is the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima, celebrated on May 13. In 1917, the Blessed Virgin appeared to three shepherd children—Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta—in Fatima, Portugal. She visited them six times, urging the world to pray the Rosary daily, seek peace, and turn away from sin. 

Mary's message at Fatima is still relevant today: she calls us to be people of prayer and peace, trusting in God's mercy and love.

A PRAYER FOR MOTHERS

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for the gift and joy of motherhood, for Your grace to love and care for our families amidst our daily struggles and competing priorities. Please bless all mothers and those who have taken upon themselves the responsibility of motherhood. Grant us strength, patience, wisdom and may Your Holy Spirit constantly inspire and guide us as we nurture our families. Comfort those who mourn the loss of their mothers and heal those who have been hurt by broken relationships. May Your peace and love surround them. Help families to honour and support their mothers, showing them kindness, gratitude, and profound respect, so our hearts may be filled with joy and our spirits be uplifted. Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, please pray for us and our families. I make this prayer through Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Saviour who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. 

Amen.

Kathryn Ady

Religious Education Leader