Every year on May 24th, the Church celebrates the Feast of Our Lady Help of Christians. This special day reminds us that Mary, the Mother of Jesus, is also our mother. She helps us, prays for us, and lovingly leads us closer to her Son. This year, we also celebrate the Jubilee of Marian Spirituality, a joyful time to reflect on Mary’s place in our faith and how we can grow closer to her in everyday life.
Did you know that the title “Help of Christians” was made famous by Saint John Bosco? He had a deep love for Mary and built a large church in her honor in Turin, Italy, calling it the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians. He often told the young people he worked with to always trust in Mary, saying, “Have faith in Mary, and you will see what miracles are!”
Mary has always helped Christians in difficult times. In the early Church, believers would turn to her when they were being persecuted. Later, during wars and plagues, people prayed to Mary for safety and healing. And she never stopped helping. Even today, people from all over the world pray to Our Lady for guidance, healing, and peace.
This Jubilee of Marian Spirituality invites us to take a closer look at how Mary lived. She trusted God completely, even when things were confusing or painful. She was humble, prayerful, and always willing to serve others. That’s the heart of Marian spirituality, trying to live like Mary did, by putting God first and loving others with kindness.
Here’s a fun trivia: Did you know that May is considered Mary’s month? That’s why so many churches and homes have special devotions, processions, and Rosary prayers during this time. Crowning a statue of Mary with flowers is one popular tradition that many parishes still follow today. It’s a simple but beautiful way to honor her.
Mary is a gentle mother who always listens. When we pray the Rosary or simply speak to her from our hearts, we invite her into our lives. She brings us peace when we are worried and joy when we feel lost. Just as she helped Jesus during His life on earth, she also helps each one of us to live as faithful followers of God.
As we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady Help of Christians and this special Jubilee, let us say a big thank you to Mary for always being with us. Let us ask her to keep guiding us, praying for us, and leading us closer to Jesus. And let us remember—Mary isn’t far away. She is always near, ready to help us with a mother’s love.
– Ashodi Ferro