This past Friday, the children of the St. Lawrence O’Toole Early Childhood Learning Center gathered in the church to honor Mary, the Mother of God. All in attendance were invited to wear blue to honor Our Lady, and it was a beautiful sight peering out at that sea of blue as the procession began.

Throughout the year, the children have gotten to know Mary not only as Jesus’ Mom but as nuestra Mother and as the Queen of Heaven. At the ECLC, we frequently meet the children where they are so they can learn about the santos through lessons, prayer, and activities. It is a unique opportunity that we are blessed to possess, and having the children participate in a Mayo Crowning was a lovely way to reinforce what the children have already begun to learn. Mrs. DeFelice, who taught the children in Bible Study throughout the year, shared with the children and parents in attendance that while we do not worship Mary, she is honored as the Mother of God and without whom we would not have eternal salvation.

Each child brought in a special flower from home to present to Our Lady, and all beamed with pride as they processed down the aisle and delicately placed their flowers at Mary’s feet. Set to the precious tune of “Hail Mary, Gentle Woman,” the procession culminated as a student presented Mary with rosary beads while another crowned the Blessed Mother nuestra Queen of Heaven. These moments truly fill nuestra hearts as teachers, and we pray these are special moments that stay with nuestra students as they grow year after year.