On the joyful and devotional Saturday afternoon of May 30, 2026, the parishioner of the Parish of Ang Muling Pagkabuhay ng Ating Panginoon, Bagong Silang, Philippines gathered for the Closing Mass of the Month of Mary, which began at 4:00 PM. This Eucharistic celebration became an expression of gratitude for the presence and guidance of the Blessed Virgin Mary throughout the month of May, a month specially dedicated to honoring the Holy Virgin Mary. Throughout the month of May, catechists together with young catechist (youth) volunteers of the Parish of Ang Muling Pagkabuhay ng Ating Panginoon in Bagong Silang actively provided catechesis to children grouped in different communities within the parish areas. Through these activities, the children were invited to deepen their knowledge of the Blessed Virgin Mary, grow in their Catholic faith, and live out Christian values in their daily lives.
After the Mass, the parishioner: composed of children, youth, parents, and the entire parish community, joined a procession of the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary around Barangay 176, Bagong Silang, Caloocan City. Accompanied by the praying of the Hail Mary, hymns of praise, and the presence of children portraying Reyna Elena (Queen Helena) along the way, the procession became a living testimony of faith within the Barangay 176 (District). The presence of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Barangay reminded the faithful of her example as a mother who faithfully accompanies the journey of every family and continually leads their life toward Christ.
The celebration then continued with the awarding of the Reyna Elena 2026 Contest, participated by the children. Reyna Elena is part of the Flores de Mayo tradition in the Philippines, where a girl (children) is chosen to represent the Blessed Virgin Mary as Queen of Heaven and as a symbol of piety, purity, and love for God. Flores de Mayo is a Catholic devotional tradition in the Philippines held throughout the month of May in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. During this devotion, flowers are often offered to the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary as a symbol of love, reverence, and prayer.
This tradition not only showcases the beauty of Filipino culture and devotion but also serves as a means of faith formation for children, helping them to know and emulate the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary. An atmosphere of joy, togetherness, and pride colored the entire event from beginning to end. The closing of the Month of Mary became more than just a celebration; it was an opportunity to deepen love for the Blessed Virgin Mary, strengthen the bonds of the parish community, and affirm the spirit of active participation in the life of the Church.
(Fr. Agung Nugraha SS.CC)