Salve Regina
One of the oldest and most beloved Marian anthems, prayed at the end of every Rosary and at Compline in the Liturgy of the Hours.
The Salve Regina, Hail, Holy Queen, is one of the oldest and most beloved Marian anthems. It is prayed at the end of every Rosary and at Compline in the Liturgy of the Hours. Its words, to you do we cry, poor banished children of Eve, give honest voice to the pain of life while turning toward Mary's mercy. It is often sung, but speaking it slowly is just as moving. Its authorship is often linked to Hermann of Reichenau in the eleventh century, though scholars debate this. Whatever its origin, it has been sung by monks, sailors and pilgrims for nearly a thousand years. It closes the day with trust in her mercy and the hope of seeing Jesus.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle PlaySalve Regina
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.
Frequently asked questions
When should I pray the Salve Regina?
Pray it at the end of the Rosary, at night prayer or when you feel exiled.
How do I pray the Salve Regina?
Say or sing it slowly, and pause on the final invocations.
Who is the Salve Regina for?
Rosary pray-ers, monastics and anyone who needs Mary's mercy.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle Play