On Sunday, May 4, “pilgrims of hope” from far and near are invited to gather at the National Shrine to honor Our Blessed Mother during the annual May Procession.

Vincentian Fathers Clay Kilburn and Jim Osendorf will lead the prayerful procession from the Shrine Church to Mary’s grotto, where an artful image of a silk dogwood tree will be presented to Mary. Each of the thousands of tree petals represents a petition received from a member of the Association of the Miraculous Medal.

During the current Jubilee Year of Hope, visitors to the National Shrine Church who fulfill certain conditions may obtain the special grace of a “Plenary Indulgence” –– a remission of punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven. (Learn the conditions for gaining an indulgence here)

Following the May Procession, members’ petitions are placed near Our Lady’s Shrine Altar inside the church. There, they will be remembered in the daily Mass and prayers throughout the remainder of May. To add your special intentions for remembrance this month, click here.