Peace prayer at Schenkenberg: Men's work celebrates May devotion

Peace prayer at Schenkenberg: Men's work celebrates May devotion

In May, a month traditionally dedicated to Marian devotion, special May devotions took place in many Catholic pilgrimage sites and communities. These devotions are not only an expression of faith, but also a cultural tradition that has developed since the Middle Ages. Today, on May 26, 2025, families of the Catholic Men's Association (KMW) from the deaneries of Hegau/Möhringen, Konstanz and Schwarzwald-Baar celebrated such a May devotion in the pilgrimage church on the Schenkenberg near Emmingen ab Egg. Loud Swabian newspaper was the daily motto of the Möhringen prayer group: “Mary – Queen of Peace. Let us go to Jesus with Mary”. The prayer community honored the Mother of God in their prayers and sought her intercession for world peace.

Pastor Ewald Billharz, who led the May service, discussed peace and the spirituality of the church in his sermon. He emphasized people's deep longing for peace and called for a change in many areas. Billharz identified original sin as one of the main causes of strife and criticized church leaders for their often excessive focus on political issues. Instead, he wanted a greater focus on spirituality, worship, sacraments and doctrine. In his opinion, there is a lack of clear statements from the church, especially on life protection issues.

The meaning of May devotions

The May devotion is considered one of the most distinctive forms of Marian devotion. In the month of May, known as the month of Mary, numerous church services and devotions are celebrated in honor of the Mother of God. Catholic Düsseldorf highlights that the first documented May Day service in Germany took place in 1841 in the monastery of the Good Shepherdesses in Munich-Haidhausen. The custom quickly spread to many German dioceses. The May devotion is often a common prayer in groups of believers, which in many communities opens with special celebrations.

The Marian symbolism of the month of May also arises from the blossoming of nature, which in Catholic traditions is seen as a sign of rejoicing over Mary's redemption. A festive May altar with flowers and candles is a central element of May devotions in many churches. In addition, families often gather for domestic devotions during which a small May altar is decorated with a figure of the Virgin Mary. Vivat explains that these traditions serve to emphasize Mary's central role in the faith and to strengthen faith through prayer.

Pastor Billharz encouraged the believers to maintain their trust in God despite the global crises and challenges. He pointed out that many things can be changed through prayer and divine help. He also did not lose sight of the importance of imparting faith to children and emphasized the need for a “climate-changing spirit” that would lead believers to Jesus Christ. In addition, the year 2025 is a special year for the Church, as Rome proclaims the “Holy Year,” offering an opportunity to reflect on the essential aspects of the faith.