The “Hail Holy Queen,” also known by its Latin title, “Salve Regina,” is one of the most cherished prayers in the Catholic tradition, often recited at the end of the Rosary. This beautiful prayer addresses Mary as our Mother and Queen, invoking her compassionate intercession and seeking her protection. Through the “Hail Holy Queen,” we express our trust in Mary’s maternal care, especially in moments of trial, sorrow, and need. As Catholics, we believe that Mary, who was assumed into heaven and crowned Queen, continues to intercede for us, guiding us closer to her Son, Jesus Christ.
The origins of the “Hail Holy Queen” date back to the 11th century, attributed to Herman of Reichenau, a Benedictine monk who wrote it as a hymn of praise and supplication to the Blessed Virgin. Over the centuries, this prayer has been a source of comfort for the faithful, reminding us that, like Mary, we too can find hope in God’s promises even amidst life’s challenges. The “Hail Holy Queen” beautifully captures our relationship with Mary: we are her children, and she is our loving Mother who never ceases to care for us.
In the Book of Revelation, Mary is depicted as the woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head (Revelation 12:1). This image of Mary as Queen underscores her exalted role in the heavenly court and her powerful intercession for all believers. The “Hail Holy Queen” prayer reflects this royal dignity while also highlighting Mary’s tenderness and compassion as our advocate and refuge.
As we recite this prayer, we turn to Mary with confidence, knowing that she listens to our pleas and brings them before her Son. Whether we are facing personal struggles, seeking guidance, or simply yearning for peace, the “Hail Holy Queen” invites us to rest in Mary’s comforting embrace and to trust in her ceaseless intercession. Let this prayer be a reminder that in Mary, we have a heavenly Mother who walks with us and leads us closer to Jesus.
Hail Holy Queen Prayer
Hail, holy Queen, Mother of mercy,
Our life, our sweetness, and our hope.
To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve;
To thee do we send up our sighs,
Mourning and weeping in this valley of tears.
Turn, then, most gracious advocate,
Thine eyes of mercy toward us,
And after this, our exile,
Show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.
Pray for us, O holy Mother of God,
That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Amen.
O Queen of Heaven,
Guide me with your gentle hand,
Comfort me in my sorrows,
And bring me closer to your Son,
That I may find peace in His love
And strength in His grace.
“A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head.” (Revelation 12:1, NIV)
Declarations and Affirmations
- I place my trust in the intercession of Mary, the Queen of Heaven, to guide and protect me.
- I declare that Mary’s prayers bring me closer to Jesus, my Savior.
- I affirm that through Mary’s maternal care, I find comfort, strength, and hope in all circumstances.
Scriptures to Support This Prayer
Revelation 12:1 (NIV):
“A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head.”
John 19:26-27 (NIV):
“When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, ‘Woman, here is your son,’ and to the disciple, ‘Here is your mother.’ From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.”
Psalm 45:9 (RSVCE):
“At your right hand stands the queen in gold of Ophir.”
Hail Holy Queen Prayer
The “Hail Holy Queen” prayer is a powerful reminder of Mary’s role as our intercessor and protector. Through this prayer, we are invited to entrust our lives to her care, confident in her love and her constant intercession before God. Whether you pray the “Hail Holy Queen” as part of the Rosary or on its own, let it be a source of comfort and a reminder of Mary’s enduring presence in your life.
Prayer Prompt Faith Activity
As you pray the “Hail Holy Queen,” consider meditating on Mary’s role as Queen of Heaven and Earth. Light a candle in her honor or place a statue or image of Mary in your prayer space as a visual reminder of her presence. Share this prayer with someone who may need Mary’s comfort and guidance, or leave a comment below with your prayer intentions. Together, let us draw closer to Jesus through the loving intercession of our Blessed Mother, the Queen of Heaven.
Tags:
- Marian devotions
- Hail Holy Queen
- Catholic prayers to Mary
- Catholic intercessory prayers
- Catholic devotional prayers
- Rosary prayers
This version reflects the Catholic tradition of praying the “Hail Holy Queen,” highlighting its significance and inviting readers to deepen their devotion to Mary. If you have any additional preferences or adjustments, please let me know!