The Importance of Rituals

May crowning is a traditional Roman Catholic ritual that occurs in the month of May of every year. In some countries, it takes place on or about May 1. In many United States Catholic parishes, it takes place on Mother's Day. It took place at Jason's school last night.

In the Philippines, the celebration is marked with the Santacruzan, with young ladies as "Reyna Elena" and "Reyna Emperatriz". They parade through the town, escorted by young men or boys under mobile arches heavily decorated with local flowers or other decorations meant to denote bounty.

It was not as lavish last night, an 8th-grader was chosen to crown Mother Mary with flowers during the celebration. It is an important selection because the young lady that is selected represents the Catholic Christian values that are expected from the students at their school. The ceremony starts off with a procession of Mary's court followed by a living rosary led by Jason. The parish priest gives a homily and the crowning takes place. All in all, the event takes place in just about 1 hour.

There is no end to the flashbulbs that go off from start to finish and you hear the "oohs and aahs" from parents when their child comes into view in their best Sunday dress. It is also an opportunity for parents to mingle and socialize. While in itself, the whole affair is nothing exciting, it is also a good reminder for us to reflect on the many sacrifices a mother does for her children without any hesitation.