Beyond the flowers...
The ‘Flowers of May’ devotion holds a special place in the hearts of many, especially within the parish community, as it signifies a deep connection to both the Blessed Virgin Mary and Jesus. In the spirit of St. Hannibal Mary, this Marian devotion serves as an important reminder to nurture a personal relationship with Mary, the mother of Jesus. By honoring her with flowers throughout the month of May, we are able to reflect on her role in salvation history, as well as the love and care she offers as a mother to the Church.
The daily flowers for Mary do not only express love and devotion. In the spirit of St. Hannibal, these daily flowers can take the form of little sacrifices, through which we grow in virtue. Daily flowers then signify our efforts, our little sacrifices to grow in piety like her. Through this devotion, we grow in holiness through acts of love and sacrifice. By honoring Mary through the ‘Flowers of May’, we also strive to emulate her virtues, deepen our spiritual lives, and draw closer to her Son Jesus, as St. Hannibal would teach us.
The ‘Flowers of May’ have been a source of strength and grace for many holy people on their spiritual journeys. By entrusting themselves to the intercession of Mary, these saints grew in sanctity and deepened their relationship with Christ. The flowers, simple as they may seem, are actually powerful tools for believers to seek Mary's guidance and protection on their paths towards holiness.
Beyond its impact on individuals, the ‘Flowers of May’ also play a vital role in fostering a sense of community within the parish. The flowers express the collective love of the parishioners for the Blessed Mother, and thus the spirit of synodality of the parishioners under her care. Through their participation, parishioners are brought together in prayer and reflection, strengthening their bond with one another as they draw closer to the mother of God and Jesus. The shared experience of honoring Mary through the offering of flowers creates a sense of unity and solidarity among the faithful.
As the parish engages in the ‘Flowers of May’ each year, the community is encouraged to deepen, year by year, their relationship with the Blessed Virgin Mary and Jesus. It aims to lead the community to a greater understanding of Jesus' love and sacrifice. As an expression of collective love, the flowers for Mary hope to become a natural tool for the community to strengthen its fraternity, communion, and spirit of synodality.
Let the ‘Flowers of May’ continue to serve as a potent avenue for nurturing, both individually and communally, our relationship with Mary, the mother of Jesus. May we seek her intercession and guidance in our spiritual journey, and ultimately bring us, the parish community, closer to the Lord of the Harvest.
Fr. Paulo Sambile, RCJ collaborates in pastoral ministry of the Parish of St. Lawrence the Deacon in Bangui, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. He also serves in strengthening the Rogationist presence in the nearby town, Dumalneg, where a church is already built under the patronage of St. Hannibal Mary Di Francia.