How to Grow in Love for Mary, Our Mother of Perpetual Help

Loving Our Lady is a beautiful privilege for Catholics. As we devote time to knowing her more deeply — her humility, her faith, her trust in God — we grow in appreciation for her role in salvation history as the Mother of Jesus and our spiritual Mother.

During the months traditionally dedicated to Mary, especially May and October, many Catholics seek practical ways to deepen their devotion. Below are simple and meaningful practices that can help cultivate a greater love for Our Mother of Perpetual Help.

PRAY THE ROSARY

The Holy Rosary remains one of the most cherished Marian devotions in the Catholic Church. Through the mysteries of the Rosary, we reflect on key moments in the life of Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Families may consider setting aside one or two evenings a week to pray together. Even a single decade prayed attentively can become a source of spiritual unity. The Rosary invites meditation, recollection, and trust in God’s providence.

SPEAK TO MARY OFTEN

Like any loving relationship, devotion grows through communication. Speaking to Mary in simple, sincere words — sharing hopes, worries, gratitude, and daily concerns — fosters closeness and trust.

Catholic tradition encourages turning to Mary as a spiritual mother and guide. Bringing our intentions before her in prayer reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles or joys.

PERFORM ACTS OF CHARITY

Love for Mary is expressed not only in words but in action. Acts of charity offered out of love for Christ reflect the virtues Mary embodied — humility, generosity, and compassion.

Organizations such as the Legion of Mary encourage prayer united with works of mercy. Whether formally affiliated or not, every act of kindness performed in a spirit of faith can be offered to God in honor of Our Lady.

BEGIN EACH DAY WITH MARY

Starting the day with a simple offering prayer through the Immaculate Heart of Mary can set a peaceful tone. Many Catholics begin their morning by entrusting their thoughts, words, and actions to Jesus through Mary.

This practice reminds us to live intentionally and prayerfully from the very first moments of the day.

INCLUDE OUR BLESSED LADY IN YOUR DAILY PRAYER LIFE

Beyond the Rosary, short prayers throughout the day can keep our hearts attentive. A brief aspiration, a glance at a Marian image, or a moment of quiet reflection can gently redirect the mind toward God.

Having a statue or image of Mary in the home can serve as a reminder of her example of faith and obedience.

EXPRESS LOVE FOR HER

Simple expressions of love nurture devotion. Saying, “Mother Mary, I love you,” may seem small, but love grows through repetition and sincerity.

In Catholic spirituality, affection for Mary ultimately leads us closer to Christ, since her entire life pointed toward Him.

WALK WITH HER IN DAILY LIFE

When traveling or facing uncertain situations, many Catholics invoke Mary’s protection and guidance. The ancient title Santa Maria del Camino — Our Lady of the Way — reflects this tradition of entrusting journeys to her care.

Whether the journey is physical or spiritual, inviting Mary into our daily experiences fosters a sense of trust and companionship.

IMITATE HER VIRTUES

True devotion includes imitation. Saint Louis de Montfort outlined virtues traditionally associated with Mary: humility, faith, obedience, prayerfulness, purity, patience, kindness, and wisdom.

Reflecting on these virtues and striving to practice them gradually shapes our character in a Christ-centered way.

TRUST AND ENTRUST

Catholic spirituality often emphasizes entrusting one’s life to God through Mary’s maternal intercession. Just as God entrusted Jesus to Mary’s care, believers symbolically entrust their concerns, decisions, and families to her guidance.

The prayer known as the Memorare, traditionally attributed to Saint Bernard, expresses confidence in her intercession while acknowledging that all grace ultimately comes from God.

SHARE SORROWS AND STRUGGLES

Mary is frequently invoked under titles such as “Refuge of Sinners” and “Comforter of the Afflicted.” In moments of discouragement, sorrow, or failure, turning to prayer can bring consolation and renewed perspective.

Opening one’s heart honestly before God through Mary can foster peace and resilience.

CALL UPON MARY IN TIME OF TEMPTATION

Catholic tradition views the spiritual life as a journey that includes struggle. Invoking the Holy Name of Mary during moments of difficulty can help redirect attention toward grace and virtue.

Historical events, such as the Battle of Lepanto, are often remembered within Catholic history as moments when the Rosary was widely prayed. Such examples inspire confidence in prayer during challenging times.

PROMOTE DEVOTION TO MARY

If devotion to Mary has enriched one’s spiritual life, it is natural to share that joy with others. Encouraging the reading of classic Marian works — such as The Glories of Mary by Saint Alphonsus Liguori or True Devotion to Mary by Saint Louis de Montfort — can deepen understanding.

Promoting Marian devotion means inviting others to discover a spiritual tradition rooted in Scripture and centuries of faith.

PREPARE FOR ETERNAL LIFE

Catholic prayer often includes reflection on life’s final moments. In the Hail Mary, believers pray: “Pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death.”

This petition reminds us to live each day in grace, repentance, and trust in God’s mercy. Rather than fear, it fosters hope and readiness.

Conclusion

Mary, honored under the title of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, remains for Catholics a model of faith, obedience, and steadfast trust in God.

In the midst of life’s challenges, turning to her example can inspire patience, charity, and deeper union with Christ. Devotion to Mary is not an end in itself, but a pathway that leads hearts toward her Son.