On Friday, May 16, nearly 800 4th graders from across the Archdiocese gathered in the Cathedral for a traditional May celebration of Mary.  These students have been studying Washington State History all year, so it was appropriate that they should come together to crown the historic image of "Our Lady of Seattle," which was venerated in Seattle's first Catholic Church, Our Lady of Good Help, beginning in 1870.


One student carried the beautiful floral crown to be placed on Mary's head; the other carries a book full of drawings, prayers, and poems in honor of Mary, created by 4th graders in dozens of our Catholic schools.


A page from the book in honor of Our Blessed Mother.


Delegates from each school formed a "court" who carried flowers to be placed at Mary's feet.




During the prayer service, several students shared their own reflections on Mary.  This student recited his poem from memory.  (Great job!)




Sister Joyce Cox, BVM led the prayer.  She has been Acting Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the past four years.


One of the fourth graders places the crown on Mary as the choir from St. Catherine School (Stacey Sunde, director) sings, "Queen of Heaven, rejoice!"




Students from St. Philomena School lead the traditional litany in honor of Mary.
"Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us!"


After the procession, students pause before the image of Our Lady of Seattle to offer a prayer.


Students from St. Therese School have their picture taken with Bishop Joe Tyson.  Bishop Tyson will become the Acting Superintendent of Catholic Schools this July.






Meanwhile, there was ice cream for everyone in the Cathedral's Archbishop Murphy Courtyard!




An ice cream sandwich tastes especially good on an 80-degree day!

Photos by M & C Laughlin.  Copyright (c) St. James Cathedral, 2008