Padre Pio’s Devotion to Our Lady and the Month of May
Padre Pio, the renowned Capuchin friar, mystic, and miracle worker, held a deep love for Our Lady Mary and the month of May, which is traditionally dedicated to her by Catholics. While Christmas was special to him, May stood out as a time of profound spiritual connection and devotion. This blog explores Padre Pio’s reflections on Mary, his letters, and the significance of May in his spiritual life.
Why May is the Month of Mary
The Catholic Church has long honored May as the Month of Mary, a tradition that dates back centuries. This devotion emerged during the Baroque period, combining earlier customs of dedicating months to Mary with the natural beauty and renewal associated with May. Historically, the month was seen as a time of growth and new beginnings, aligning perfectly with Mary’s role as the Mother of God and the Queen of Heaven. Pope Paul VI described May as a “moving tribute of faith and love” offered by Catholics worldwide to honor Mary, reflecting her unique place in the role of salvation and her intercessory power.
Marian Feast Days in May
May has 3 major feast days dedicated to Our Lady:
- May 13: Our Lady of Fatima
- May 24: Mary Help of Christians
- May 31: The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
These feasts provide opportunities for Catholics to deepen their devotion to Mary through prayer, reflection, and acts of veneration.
By incorporating these traditions into our lives, we can honor Mary’s pivotal role in our faith while strengthening our connection to her and her Son, Jesus Christ.
The Month of May: A Time of Grace
Padre Pio often referred to May as “the most beautiful month of the year,” filled with fragrant roses and radiant light. For him, this month symbolized the sweetness and beauty of Mary. In a letter dated May 1st, 1912, he wrote to his friend Father Agostino:
“How beautiful the month of May is! It’s the loveliest of the year. Yes, my father, how well this month preaches the sweetness and beauty of Mary!”
In this letter, Padre Pio expressed both gratitude and a sense of inadequacy in repaying Mary for her countless blessings. He described moments when he entrusted his anguish to her and received comfort in return but lamented his occasional forgetfulness in showing gratitude.
Mary’s Role in Salvation History
Padre Pio’s devotion to Mary was not merely sentimental; it was deeply rooted in theology. He viewed her as an advocate, helper, and mediator between humanity and Jesus. In another letter written on May 6th, 1913, he reflected on his mystical experiences with Mary:
“This tender Mother… poured so many graces into my heart that when I find myself in her presence and that of Jesus, I am forced to exclaim: ‘Where am I? Who is near me?’ I feel like everything is burning without fire; I feel close and tied to the Son through this Mother.”
These reflections highlight Mary’s unique role in connecting believers with Christ. For Padre Pio, she was not only a maternal figure but also a spiritual guide who led him closer to God through her intercession.
The Importance of Marian Devotion
Padre Pio’s letters emphasize the importance of staying connected to Mary as a way to strengthen one’s faith. He often encouraged others to honor her by praying the Rosary—a prayer she herself gifted to humanity. St. Bonaventure once wrote: “When we say ‘Hail Mary,’ all heaven rejoices and hell trembles.” This underscores the power of Marian prayers in spiritual warfare and personal devotion.
A Call to Action
As we reflect on Padre Pio’s love for Our Lady during May, let us embrace his example by deepening our own Marian devotion. Praying the Rosary daily is one way to honor her and seek her intercession for our needs. Her “yes” to God paved the way for salvation history—a gift for which we should remain endlessly grateful.
May we follow Padre Pio’s footsteps in cherishing Our Lady’s role in our lives and drawing closer to Christ through her maternal care. Let this month be a time of grace, reflection, and renewed faith as we honor Mary with heartfelt prayers and devotion.
