May blossoms with beauty in both nature and the Church, inviting us to turn our hearts to the Blessed Virgin Mary, to whom this month is especially dedicated. In her quiet “yes,” also known as Mary's Fiat, we see the perfect model of discipleship. At the same time, we journey toward Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles and ignited the mission of the Church. Together, these celebrations remind us that through Mary’s intercession and the Spirit’s power, we too are called to bear Christ into the world.

This month let’s look at where we find the Hail Mary in scripture:  

• "Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee": Luke 1:28.
  
  
• "Blessed art thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb": Luke 1:42.
  
  
• "Holy Mary, Mother of God": Based on Elizabeth's phrase "mother of my Lord" in Luke 1:43.
  
  
• "Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death": Derived from biblical principles of intercessory prayer (James 5:16, 1 Tim 2:1)

The Memorare is a prayer asking for Mary's mercy, expressing confidence that she will not ignore our petitions for help. It is often included in daily or night-time prayer routines. Click on the Memorare image for a coloring page to help your family learn this prayer.