Over the centuries, we have returned that adoration and it is especially manifested in our love and devotion to Mary, Mother of God.  Since the late 1200s, May has been a special month dedicated to Our Lady.  Down through the ages, it gained popularity and by the 18^th century it had spread to the whole Church.  We will remember May altars from our childhood, placing a crown on a statue of Mary or reciting the rosary.  However you choose to mark this special occasion, in doing so give thanks for our mothers and grandmothers and their unreserved love for us.

 

This month that gratitude too should extend to the lifting of many restrictions, the continued roll out of the vaccine programme and our ability to see loved ones again across county boundaries.  At the Parish, we are thankful too for parishioners’ prayers, on-going support and generosity of time, talent and treasure – the tenets of Christian stewardship – to various ministries, the weekly offertory and Cathedral restoration.

 

For all of our prayers this month, let us call on the intercession of the Blessed Virgin.  The Memorare reminds us that we have a great protector in the mother of our Lord, ‘Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly to thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother; to thee do I come; before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.’