'Coronation of the Virgin', Peter Paul Rubens
As a child attending a Roman Catholic primary school in the late 70s early 80s, I look back now with a somewhat disapproving stance on a lot of the church's teachings and celebrations. Needless to say, I am not and have not been for a long time a "practicing Catholic".
You didn't ask questions - the rituals, sacraments, and all the rigmarole that went with it were just accepted and acted out. Religious celebrations thrown upon you, kids clueless, participating with no understanding as to why. Intangible heritage from childhood.
Queen of the May was one such celebration.
Young girls dressed in white, a swarm of mini brides offering flowers to the statue of the "Virgin" Mary. The church recognised Mary as the Queen of the May, and so she was the chosen one, crowned with blossoms. The song of worship:
"Oh Mary we crown thee with blossoms today
Queen of the Angels and Queen of the May"
still sends a slight shiver down my spine!
The neighbouring Church of England school did things differently, however. They concentrated more on the crowning of the May Queen, typically a local girl or young woman chosen for the role. She wears white to symbolise purity and a crown of flowers. Still has slightly creepy, The Wicker Man vibes, but at least this connected more with the origins of the tradition, stemming from ancient Celtic and Pagan spring festivals.
As an eight year old child I would have loved to have learned more about the folklore behind May Day celebrations. Even in secondary school progressing towards my O-level (the old GSCE), the religious studies syllabus was purely Catholic teachings. Where was the diversity, the broader outlook and understanding of other religious ideologies? Lyrics from a song spring to mind here, a quote from my more recent religious teachings:
"Yes, there are two paths you can go by, but in the long run,
there's still time to change the road you're on."
My daughter, Lauren (you may have heard of her), has a keen interest in folklore and has encouraged me to think outside the box. She has encouraged me to write and connect with my inner thoughts, and to be honest its feels good.
I am now keen to read up on the Pagan origins of the May Queen.
Thanks Loz
Love ya x
