This is one of four Marian antiphons, with following versicles and prayers, traditionally said or sung after night prayer, immediately before going to sleep. It is said throughout Eastertide. (That is, from Easter Day through Pentecost, the seventh Sunday after Easter.

The Regina caeli is also said in place of the Angelus during Eastertide.

Queen of Heaven

V. Queen of Heaven, rejoice, alleluia.
R. For He whom you did merit to bear, alleluia.
V. Has risen, as he said, alleluia.
R. Pray for us to God, alleluia.
V. Rejoice and be glad, O Virgin Mary, alleluia.
R. For the Lord has truly risen, alleluia.

Let us pray. O God, who gave joy to the world through the resurrection of Thy Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, grant we beseech Thee, that through the intercession of the Virgin Mary, His Mother, we may obtain the joys of everlasting life. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

Explanation

The “Regina Coeli” (Queen of Heaven), also known as “Regina Caeli,” is a majestic and ancient Marian hymn that resonates deeply within the Catholic faith, embodying the joy of the Easter season. This prayer is a celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and Mary’s unique role in this mystery as the Mother of the Redeemer.

Dating back to at least the 12th century, the Regina Coeli is traditionally sung or recited during the Easter season from Easter Sunday until Pentecost, replacing the Angelus prayer at 6 AM, noon, and 6 PM. It begins with an exultant proclamation, “Queen of Heaven, rejoice, alleluia,” emphasizing the joy of the Resurrection and Mary’s intimate connection to this pivotal event. The prayer acknowledges Mary’s role in bearing Christ, who, by conquering death, has given new life to the world.

“For He whom you were worthy to bear, alleluia, has risen as He said, alleluia,” acknowledges the fulfillment of Christ’s promise of resurrection, highlighting Mary’s faith and her pivotal role in the Incarnation. The prayer then invokes her intercession with, “Pray for us to God, alleluia,” recognizing Mary as a powerful intercessor at the throne of her Son.

The Regina Coeli encapsulates the essence of Christian hope and the transformative power of the Resurrection. It serves as a joyful reminder of the victory over death that Christ achieved, and it honors Mary as the Mother of God, whose “yes” to the divine plan brought salvation to humanity. This prayer not only elevates the spirit of the faithful during Easter but also strengthens the bond between the Church and its heavenly Queen, fostering a deeper devotion to Mary in her role as co-redemptrix, advocate, and mediatrix of all graces.