The entire Holy Cross School student body, faculty, and many adoring parents packed the pews and aisles of Holy Cross Church on May 16 to witness the crowning of the statue of St. Mary.  Catholics traditionally celebrate May as the month of Mary, the mother of Jesus. 

The eighth grade class, bearing carnations, led the procession and lined the center aisle of the church.  They placed the carnations at the foot of the statue of Mary.  Following them were the second grade students, who recently received their First Holy Communion.  The boys were handsome in their navy blazers and white pants, shirts and ties, and the girls were angelic in their white dresses.  The white clothing is meant to remind the children of their Baptism.

School principal Mrs. Patricia Graham started the ceremony by reminding the students that Catholics believe Mary to be the first disciple of Jesus, as well as His mother, “and as such, we pray to her to intervene with Jesus on our behalf when times are difficult.” Eighth grade students then read from Scripture and placed a crown of fresh white flowers on the statue.  The whole student body joined in praying the Litany of Mary and singing “Hail Holy Queen,” while the second graders placed their carnations at the foot of the statue. 

The second graders then led the procession out of the church and gathered for class photos. All their parents were eager to capture this special moment on camera.

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