The fifth (5th) month of the Gregorian calendar, May is named after the Roman goddess, MAIA. The worship of Mercury (to whom the planet is dedicated) was associated with the worship of the Roman goddess Maia who is identified as his mother by her association with the Greek goddess Maia – mother of Hermes. Both Mercury and Maia were honored in pagan festivals on May 15th the dedication day of the Temple of Mercury on the Aventine (built around 500 BC). The Romans believed that MERCURY was the god of merchandise and merchants. MERCURY is commonly identified with the Greek HERMES – the fleet-footed messenger of the gods.

Shavuot (Pentecost) 2022 will begin in the evening of Saturday, June 4 and ends in the evening of Monday, June 6. Pentecost Sunday will be observed on June 5, 2022.