A Royal Celebration in Ankawa: Crowning of the Virgin Mary as Queen of the Universe

  • May 31, 2025
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In a beautiful display of devotion and unity, the Chaldean Daughters of Mary held their annual celebration of the Crowning of the Virgin Mary, Queen of the Universe, on Saturday, May 31, 2025, in the courtyard of St. Joseph Novitiate Monastery in Ankawa.

The event took place under the patronage of His Excellency Archbishop Bashar Matti Warda, C.Ss.R. with the participation of hundreds of faithful from across the Archdiocese. The celebration marks the end of the Marian month of May, a tradition beloved by the local community since 2011

The evening began with the Rosary and Marian meditations led by the sisters. This was followed by the Crowning Rite, where prayers and hymns were offered in an atmosphere of deep reverence.

Archbishop Warda presided over the Holy Mass, accompanied by Fr. Samir Sliwa, Fr. Shwan Hanna, deacons, and religious sisters. The celebration concluded with a processional march, during which Mary, adorned with flowers, was carried to Saints Peter and Paul Church. There, the Archbishop placed a crown of roses on the statue, honoring Mary as Queen and entrusting the faithful to her maternal care.

In his homily, Archbishop Warda reflected on Mary’s humble obedience and spiritual motherhood, reminding the faithful that true glory lies not in power, but in love, trust, and service.

“Mary’s crown is not of gold, but of grace. She is Queen because she said yes to God,” he said.
“Her path is our path: humility, faith, and surrender to God’s will.”

The celebration was both a tribute to Mary and a powerful reminder of hope, inviting the Church to walk in her footsteps toward holiness and peace.