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!
V- Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God
R- That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
The background story of The Salve Regina (Hail Holy Queen)
The Salve Regina, also known as the Hail Holy Queen, is a Catholic prayer that has been a beloved part of the Church’s devotional life for centuries. The prayer is sung or recited at the end of the Rosary, and is often used as a closing prayer for other Catholic devotions.
The origins of the Salve Regina can be traced back to the early Church, where Mary was revered as a model of faith, love, and devotion. Over time, various prayers and hymns were developed to honor Mary and seek her intercession, including the Salve Regina.
The prayer itself is a beautiful tribute to Mary, invoking her as a source of comfort, help, and protection. It asks for her intercession and guidance, and expresses the hope and longing of all those who seek the grace and mercy of God.
In the Middle Ages, the Salve Regina became a popular devotion among Catholic monastics, who recited it as part of their daily prayers. Over time, the prayer spread throughout the Catholic world, becoming a beloved part of Catholic piety and devotion.
Today, the Salve Regina remains a cherished Catholic prayer, reflecting the enduring love and reverence that Catholics have for the Mother of God. Whether sung or recited, the prayer invites Catholics to draw closer to Mary’s love and intercession, and to seek her spiritual guidance and protection throughout their lives.