13/06/2026
π©ππππ’ || OFFERING OF FLOWERS
(May 31, 2026)
As the bell rings, it signals the offering of flowers. Traditionally, only unmarried women were permitted to enter the sanctuary, in imitation of the Virgin Mary's purity. During this ritual, the devotees create various formations and shapes to honor the dayβs offerings; in the video, they form the letter βMβ to honor the name of the Virgin MaryβMaria.
This is followed by the procession of the Emblem, or the Escudo Mayor, and the ofrecimiento (offering), which showcases the symbols and virtues of the Blessed Mother.
The bell tolls once more, signaling the devotees to kneel in prayer.
While singing the CΓ‘nticos de Ofrecimiento, the bell rings again; the faithful raise their flowers in their right hands while placing their left palms over their hearts. This profound gesture symbolizes their devotion, as if to say, "Here are our prayers, blossoming like flowersβmay you accept them straight from our hearts."
The bell rings again, signaling the devotees to stand for the genuflect and the bowβa sacred sign of profound reverence, humility, and deep adoration for the Divine.
Next, the Escudo and ofrecimiento are placed at the altar and the flowers are collected. The representatives then proceed to the altar of the Virgin Mary, where they stand before her image and raise the flowers toward herβan act that silently proclaims, βHere are our prayers, blossoming like flowers; bring them to your Son, Jesus.β The flowers are then gently placed at the foot of the altar.
Afterward, the devotees turn and form a line along the communion rail. The bell rings once more, signaling them to kneel in prayer for the Salve Regina, holding their hands in the bendito (prayer) position. Following the incensation of the image, the AdiΓ³s is sung.
Finally, the bell rings for a genuflection, and a flying kiss is rendered to the image of the Virgin Mary on ordinary days, and with a wave on May 31βa poignant gesture signaling that the month-long devotion has finally come to an end.
Viva la Virgen!
