As Catholics kicked off May, a month dedicated to honor Mary, Jesus' mother, the Diocese of Pittsburgh announced it is holding a series called "To Jesus, Through Mary" throughout the month.

The classes are aimed at helping the faithful grow closer to Jesus through His mother.

“What are you most afraid of? Talk to Mary about it today. Ask her to help you replace your fears with trust in Jesus,” the diocese posted online as a description of the sessions. 

Mary holds a high position in the Catholic doctrine. The Church in the 1200s first set aside a month to honor her, Catholic Culture says, and the practice grew more popular during the 1700s. 

Various popes have valued the importance of reflecting on her during the month. In 2002, St. Pope John Paul II said: "Today we begin the month dedicated to Our Lady, a favorite of popular devotion. In accord with a long-standing tradition of devotion, parishes and families continue to make the month of May a 'Marian' month, celebrating it with many devout liturgical, catechetical and pastoral initiatives!” 

Mary’s position is unique because, as a human, she is among those in need of God's saving, but as the Mother of God, she received the gift of God's grace to an extent that surpasses all others, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) explains. Mary's willingness to follow God's plan, though it put her at odds with societal standards of the day, places her in a crucial role in salvation. Catholics view Mary as a role model of discipleship and many ask for her intercession during their prayers. 

Several feast days honor her throughout the year, Marians says. This month, May 13 marks the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima, and May 31 remembers the Visitation. Other annual feast days include: the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, on Jan. 1; the Annunciation on March 25; Mary's Assumption into Heaven on Aug. 15; and the Immaculate Conception on Dec. 8.