Honouring Mary in the Month of May
Every May, Catholic communities around the world, including ours here at Santa Maria College, honour Mary, the mother of Jesus. But this is not just about tradition. It is about connection, love, and learning from someone who lived with quiet courage and deep faith.
Mary was not just a figure in Scripture. She was a young woman who said “yes” to something extraordinary, trusting in God even when she did not have all the answers. She reminds us of what it means to be brave, to be kind, and to be led by compassion.
Where the Tradition Comes From
The tradition of dedicating the month of May to Mary goes back hundreds of years, as far back as the 13th century! Over time, it became common for families, parishes, and schools to mark the month with special prayers, flowers, and gatherings.
It is a beautiful way to slow down, reflect, and invite Mary into our daily lives as someone who understands what it means to live with love and purpose.
Mary & Santa Maria – A Special Connection
Our connection to Mary is deeply woven into our Catholic identity. Named in honour of Mary, we draw on her example in May and throughout the year. Her strength, grace, and unwavering faith mirror our values: Hospitality, Compassion, Justice, Service, and Excellence.
Catherine McAuley, the founder of the Sisters of Mercy, was highly devoted to Mary. In fact, she described Mary as a spiritual mother to all Mercy sisters. That legacy still lives on in the way our students and staff reflect on Mary’s life and strive to live out those same values.
A Community of Prayer and Belonging
We offer our community the opportunity to connect with Mary through our weekly Rosary. This practice not only deepen students’ spiritual lives but also connects them with a global Catholic tradition, helping them to see Mary as a motherly figure who walks with them and intercedes on their behalf through both their challenges and joys.
What Mary Teaches Us Today
The month of May is a chance to step back, reconnect with what matters, and be inspired by Mary’s courage, trust and compassion. As the College honours its namesake, students and staff are reminded of the beauty of living with faith, humility, and love. In turning to Mary, we are invited to draw closer to Christ and to embrace the mission of compassion and service that she so perfectly embodied.
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Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.
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