Week 1: Mary in our tradition — Introduction to Our May Series
As the month of May begins, it’s a special time here at St Chrysostom’s when we gather together as a parish community to crown our statue of Mary after Mass during the Regina Coeli. This beautiful tradition, celebrated on the first Sunday of May, invites us to honour Mary as our Queen and Mother, setting the tone for a month dedicated to deepening our love and devotion to her.
Last year, our parish reflections explored the four Marian dogmas: Mary as the Mother of God, her Perpetual Virginity, the Immaculate Conception, and the Assumption. These teachings remind us of Mary’s unique role in salvation and her holiness specially prepared by God.
This year, as May unfolds, we’ll focus on some other rich Marian themes that invite us to grow closer to her and, through her, to Jesus:
Mary as Queen of Heaven Celebrating Mary’s royal dignity as the Mother of the King, and what this means for us as her spiritual children.
Mary as Mother of the Church Reflecting on how Mary continues to care for every member of the Church, nurturing us with maternal love.
Mary as Mediatrix Exploring Mary’s loving role in bringing our prayers and needs before God.
Mary as Model of Discipleship Looking to Mary’s faith, obedience, humility, and courage as a guide for our own Christian journey.
These weekly reflections seek to be both encouraging and practical, rooted in the faith and hope that sustain us here in our community.
Mary in the Anglo-Catholic Tradition
Here at St Chrysostom’s, our Anglo-Catholic heritage embraces Mary’s place not only as the Mother of God but as a powerful intercessor and model for daily discipleship. Our tradition joyfully blends Catholic reverence with Anglican faithfulness, bringing Mary into the heart of worship and daily life.
Mary appears throughout Scripture as a figure of obedience and grace, and within Anglo-Catholic worship her presence is cherished in prayers, hymns, and liturgy that elevate our hearts toward God. When we crown Mary’s statue each May, we proclaim her as Queen — not distant or untouchable, but close to us, a mother who cares deeply for each of her children.
Living and serving in a community touched by hardship, we find in Mary a compassionate friend who understands our struggles, a woman of faith and courage who faced uncertainty but trusted God completely. Her example invites us to place our hope firmly in God’s loving plan.
