Catholics traditionally honor Mary, Jesus' mother, this month. To underscore the importance of it and involve parishioners in the practice, the Diocese of Winona-Rochester is asked the faithful online how they plan to honor her.

“May is Mary's month! ¡Mayo es el mes de María!,” the diocese announced on Facebook. “It is tradition during the month of May to honor Mary in a more particular way. What will you do this month to honor our Lady?” 

The practice of honoring Mary during May arose in the late 1200s and became popularized during the 1700s, Catholic Culture says. Popes have placed a special emphasis on honoring Mary throughout May. 

For example, in May 2002, St. Pope John Paul II said: "Today we begin the month dedicated to Our Lady a favorite of popular devotion. In accord with a long-standing tradition of devotion, parishes and families continue to make the month of May a 'Marian' month, celebrating it with many devout liturgical, catechetical and pastoral initiatives!” 

Mary holds a unique position in Catholicism, because as a human, she is included among those in need of God's saving, but as the Mother of God, she has received the gift of God's grace to an extent that surpasses all others, according to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). Mary's willingness to cooperate with God's plan places her in a crucial role in salvation. Catholics acknowledge Mary as a role model of discipleship and may ask for her intercession. 

Mary is honored on multiple feast days throughout the year, according to the Marians. During May, Catholics celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima on May 13, and the Visitation on May 31. Other notable feast days include the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, on Jan. 1; the Annunciation on March 25; Mary's Assumption into Heaven on Aug. 15; and the Immaculate Conception, which is celebrated on Dec. 8.