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Salve Regina

Hail, Holy Queen (Salve Regina)

The ancient Marian antiphon traditionally prayed at the conclusion of the Holy Rosary and at Compline (Night 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.

Canonical English doxology prayer text used in liturgical and private devotion across the United States.

Spiritual Meaning

About this Prayer

Attributed to Blessed Hermann of Reichenau in the eleventh century, the Salve Regina is a loving prayer asking the Blessed Virgin Mary to look upon our earthly journey with eyes of mercy and lead us to Jesus.

Devotional Context

When is it Prayed?

This prayer is traditionally woven into the Holy Rosary, liturgical celebrations, the Divine Office, or personal morning and evening examinations of conscience.

Audio TrackGlory Be Prayer Studio