The “Hail Holy Queen,” or “Salve Regina” in Latin, is a deeply venerated prayer in Catholic tradition, embodying the Church’s profound love and veneration for the Blessed Virgin Mary as the Queen of Heaven and Earth. This prayer is a lyrical expression of the Catholic faith’s Marian devotion, acknowledging Mary’s exalted role in the divine plan of salvation.

Originating from the 11th century, the Hail Holy Queen prayer is a poignant appeal to Mary, recognizing her as “our life, our sweetness, and our hope.” It begins with an invocation, “Hail, holy Queen, Mother of Mercy,” highlighting Mary’s merciful nature and her queenship, which stems from her divine motherhood. The prayer continues to describe her as a refuge and advocate for sinners, expressing the Catholic belief in Mary’s intercessory power before her Son, Jesus Christ.

“To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve” reflects the human condition after the Fall, looking to Mary for solace and guidance back to her Son. The prayer pleads for the Blessed Mother’s intercession “that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ,” underscoring the Catholic understanding of the Blessed Virgin’s role in leading souls to divine grace and salvation.

The Hail Holy Queen is traditionally prayed at the end of the Rosary, symbolizing the conclusion of this meditative prayer with an act of homage to Mary, entrusting all prayers and petitions to her maternal love. This prayer not only celebrates Mary’s queenship but also serves as a reminder of her continuous advocacy for the faithful, making it an essential part of Catholic prayer life, especially in moments of supplication and thanksgiving.

Hail Holy Queen

Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy,
our life, our sweetness and our hope.
To you do we cry,
poor banished children of Eve.
To you do we send up our sighs,
mourning and weeping in this valley of tears
Turn then, most gracious advocate,
your eyes of mercy toward us,
and after this exile
show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb,
Jesus.
O clement, O loving,
O sweet Virgin Mary.