5 Simple Ways to Grow Closer to Mary this May: Weekly Message for 05-17-16

Dear Fellow Digital Pilgrim, pax Christi:
The month of May wouldn’t be the same without Marian processions, May crownings, and other devotions dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. These traditions are a beautiful part of our Catholic heritage because they help us to deepen our relationship with Mary, the mother of Jesus – Mary, who draws us closer to Christ her son, and deeper into the heart of the Church.
During this month dedicated to Mary, our calendars can fill up with First Communions, Confirmations, and spring weddings. But let us not miss this opportunity to focus on strengthening our relationship with the Mother of God. Mary knows well her unique role as the most privileged witness to Christ’s work of salvation. She desires to serve as our teacher and guide so that we can be more closely united with her Son.
Knowing how much we can learn from her, how can we grow closer to the Blessed Mother? Spiritual goals seem so abstract compared to something concrete like losing 10 pounds! Thankfully the answer is simple: Start small, and start today! Here are five simple ways to grow in our relationship with the Mother of God, whose only desire is to lead us to her Son.
Ask Mary

Has it ever occurred to you simply to ask Mary for the grace to grow closer to her, so that she can lead you swiftly and surely to Jesus? With child-like honesty, ask from the heart for the grace to be a good daughter or son of Mary.
Talk with Mary

Before you pick up the phone to call a friend or post on Facebook, consciously use your time to talk with Mary about your concerns, joys, or activities. A favorite image or statue of Mary can serve as a physical reminder of her presence and interest in your daily life.
Spend time with Mary

Establish a moment each day dedicated to spending time with the Blessed Mother. This can take the form of a morning or bedtime routine that includes a few minutes of prayer with Mary. You can recite the Angelus at 6 a.m., noon, and 6 p.m. as a way to unite your work to her prayers for the Church. You can pray the Rosary on your own or as a family at a certain time every day. Or make it a habit to use a morning or afternoon coffee break to spend a few moments with her. There is always a Retreat Guide or two here at RCSpirituality to encourage you to take a 10 minute break with her!
Read about Mary

Accompany Mary as she appears in the Bible at significant events in the life of Jesus. Mary experienced the Incarnation and Nativity. She found Jesus in the temple after searching without rest for three days. Mary was there at the wedding in Cana, at the foot of the Cross on Calvary, and when the Holy Spirit descended on the apostles at Pentecost. Meditate on these scripture passages and experience these moments through Mary’s eyes. Allow her to share her thoughts and sentiments with you. You can also learn more about her through the eyes of a spiritual writer or saint who was close to Mary. Just stop by a Catholic bookstore to find a good read.
Entrust your intentions to Mary and make an Act of Consecration

Find some quiet time, with a journal and pen in hand. Consider the needs and concerns that you know can be resolved only through the grace of God. Write down your intentions and and commit them to the Blessed Mother’s maternal care and intercession. After placing your needs in her hands, make an Act of Consecration following the popular guide “33 Days to Morning Glory: A Do-It-Yourself Retreat In Preparation for Marian Consecration” by Fr. Michael Gaitley, MIC.
With these small steps taken day after day, week after week, and beyond May throughout the year, you’ll find yourself growing closer to our Blessed Mother. The more time you spend in her company, the more likely you will “pick up” her habits and virtues! Seek the help of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who desires to bring all her children closer to her beloved Son.
Thank you for being part of our mission here at RCSpirituality with your prayers and your support. We hope these resources allow as many people as possible to enter into a dynamic relationship with the Lord, to Pray, Learn, Grow, and Go!
God bless you!
In Christ,

Lucy Honner
lucy@rcspirituality.org