The “We Fly to Thy Protection,” or “Sub Tuum Praesidium” in Latin, is one of the oldest known prayers to the Blessed Virgin Mary, tracing its roots back to around the 3rd century. This prayer is a profound expression of the Catholic Church’s trust in Mary’s intercessory power and her role as protector and refuge for the faithful.
The prayer begins with the words, “We fly to thy protection, O Holy Mother of God,” immediately invoking Mary as our sanctuary in times of distress. This invocation reflects the deep-seated Catholic belief in Mary’s maternal care and her readiness to offer shelter to those seeking her help. The phrase “Do not despise our petitions in our necessities” acknowledges human vulnerability and the confidence that the faithful have in Mary’s compassion and advocacy before her Son.
The prayer concludes with, “but deliver us always from all dangers, O glorious and blessed Virgin,” underscoring the belief in Mary’s ability to intercede for us, providing not just spiritual but also physical and temporal protection. It is a prayer of surrender and trust, where the faithful turn to Mary in moments of need, asking for her maternal assistance in navigating life’s perils.
“We Fly to Thy Protection” has been a source of comfort for Catholics throughout centuries, especially in times of plague, war, or personal crises. Its simplicity and directness make it a universal prayer, easily memorized and prayed spontaneously in moments of danger or distress. This prayer not only strengthens the bond between the believer and Mary but also serves as a reminder of the Church’s teaching on Mary’s mediation, her sanctity, and her pivotal role in the spiritual life of Christians. It’s a testament to the enduring faith in the Holy Mother’s protective love, a beacon of hope that guides the faithful back to her Son, Jesus Christ.
We fly to Thy protection
We fly to Thy protection, O Holy Mother of God.
Do not despise our petitions in our necessities,
but deliver us always from all dangers,
O Glorious and Blessed Virgin.