Honoring Mary in May at Holy Cross

The entire student body, faculty and parents packed the pews and aisles of on May 21 to witness the annual crowning of the statue of St. Mary.

Catholics traditionally celebrate May as the month of Mary, the mother of Jesus.

The eighth grade class led the procession and lined the center aisle of the church. Following them were the second grade students, who recently received their First Holy Communion.

The boys wore navy blazers, white pants, shirts and ties, and the girls wore traditional white dresses for the occasion. In the Catholic religion, the white clothing is meant to remind the children of their Baptism, which, according to Catholic belief, cleanses babies of original sin.

School principal Mrs. Patricia Graham opened the ceremony with a prayer. Eighth grade students then read from Scripture and placed a crown of fresh flowers on the statue of Mary. The congregation joined in, praying the Litany of Mary and then sang “Hail Holy Queen” while each second grader placed a carnation at the foot of the statue.

The second grade classes then led the procession out of the church and gathered for class photos.

For a glimpse into the day, take a look at the photo gallery above.