Crowning of Our Lady
The crowning of Our Lady of Fatima, seeks to reflect the glorious ceremony that took place in heaven, in praise to the Mother of God and Our Mother
Origin of this devotion
From time immemorial, Catholics have had the custom of paying special tribute to the Mother of God by placing a crown on her head. Whether richly decorated diadem or simple circlet of flowers, these crowns are earthly symbols of the fifth glorious mystery of the rosary, in which we recall the Coronation of the Blessed Virgin in heaven.
This popular devotion has a special spiritual significance: the gift of oneself. The offering of the crown represents that act of placing oneself under the guidance and protection of the Mother of God that she may rule over our hearts.
Over the centuries the Sovereign Pontiffs have personally presided over such celebrations crowning statues of Our Lady at important Marian shrines and have richly endowed such occasions with blessings and notable indulgences.
Crowning at Parishes
This ceremony of coronation may take place in Parishes in different circumstances. Whether it be in a retreat, a special feast or solemnity of Our Blessed Mother, Consecration of the Parish to the Immaculate Heart, the First Saturday Devotion, and specially in a Marian Mission.
The ceremony of coronation
The ceremony initiates with a beautiful procession, culminating with the arrival of the statue of the Blessed Virgin, followed by the crowning and the consigning of the rosary.
A narrator explains each step of the ceremony and its symbolism, and invites the faithful – as recommended by St. Augustine – to be spiritually united with the devotion and heavenly liturgy.
This manner of “living the liturgy” or devotion has proven to be an exceptional occasion of grace for various communities and offers a wonderful means of nourishing one’s faith and participating in Holy Mother Church’s mission of evangelization.
On other Missions
This act of Marian devotion can also take place in other places than a Parish.
Circumstances permitting, the Pilgrim Statue of Our Lady of Fatima may be taken to hospitals, nursing homes, schools and homes. And there realize a simple yet pious crowning.
