Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Memorial)
Feast Day: August 22
Introduction to the Queenship of Mary
The Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a beautiful Catholic memorial celebrated on August 22, just eight days after the Solemnity of the Assumption. It reminds us that, as the Mother of Christ the King, Mary shares uniquely in His heavenly glory.This feast was formally instituted by Pope Pius XII in 1954 through the encyclical Ad Caeli Reginam (“To the Queen of Heaven”). In it, he declared:
> “Mary, in dependence on Jesus, was to be Queen, because He, the Son of God, was to be King of all creation.”
The Catholic Church recognizes Mary as Queen of Heaven and Earth not as an earthly ruler but as a motherly intercessor. Her queenship flows naturally from her divine motherhood—since Jesus is King, His mother, by grace, holds a special place of honor.
Biblical Foundations of Mary’s Queenship
Mary’s title as Queen is deeply rooted in Scripture and Tradition. The Bible reveals several images that point to her exalted role:
1. The Role of the Queen Mother (Gebirah)
In ancient Israel, the mother of the king held a place of honor and intercession. We see this in 1 Kings 2:19, where Bathsheba, Solomon’s mother, is seated at his right hand—a symbol of authority and influence. Mary, as the Mother of Christ the King, fulfills this biblical archetype.
2. Revelation 12:1
> “A great sign appeared in the sky, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars.”
Catholic tradition identifies this woman as Mary, crowned in heavenly glory, representing her queenship over the people of God.
3. Luke 1:32-33
The angel Gabriel proclaims to Mary:
> “The Lord God will give to Him the throne of His father David, and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever.”
If Jesus is the eternal King, it is fitting to honor His mother as Queen Mother.
4. Typology of the Ark of the Covenant
In the Old Testament, the Ark bore the presence of God; in the New Testament, Mary bore Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh. Her queenship thus signifies her unique role in salvation history.
Spiritual and Devotional Significance
Mary’s queenship is not about power but about service. Unlike earthly monarchs, Mary’s reign is marked by humility, love, and intercession.
“Mary interceding for humanity, symbolizing her loving role as Queen and Mother.”
Mary as Intercessor
As Queen, Mary constantly intercedes for her spiritual children. At the Wedding at Cana (John 2:1-11), she said, “Do whatever He tells you,” showing her role in guiding us toward Jesus.
Mary as Model of Obedience
Mary’s “yes” to God at the Annunciation (Luke 1:38) sets the standard for faithful discipleship:> “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.”
Her queenship is inseparable from her humility—she accepted God’s will entirely and invites us to do the same.
Mary as Mother of the Church
At the Cross, Jesus entrusted Mary to the disciple John (John 19:26-27), symbolizing her role as mother of all believers. Her queenship therefore embraces all of God’s children.
“Mary among the faithful, symbolizing her spiritual motherhood and guidance.”
Our Identity as God’s Royal Children
Celebrating Mary’s Queenship reminds us that we, too, are royal heirs in Christ:- Romans 8:17 says:
> “If we are children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ.”
- We are called to live as sons and daughters of the King, imitating Mary’s life of service and faithfulness.
- As royal servants, our mission is to reflect God’s love in everything we do—our words, our choices, and our actions.
With Mary as our Queen, we are encouraged to remain close to Christ and live as faithful members of His kingdom.
Practical Reflection – Living Mary’s Example Today
Mary teaches us that true greatness comes from serving others. We can honor her Queenship by: |
| Daily Rosary Recitation: The Mysteries |
- Praying the Rosary to deepen our connection with Christ through Mary.
- Practicing humility in our daily lives.
- Offering ourselves in service to the Church and community.
- Trusting in Mary’s intercession during challenges and trials.
A practical prayer to live this devotion:
> “Mary, Queen and Mother, help us to follow your example of humility and obedience. Lead us always to your Son, Jesus.”
Final Thoughts
The Queenship of Mary isn’t about earthly glory—it’s about faithful discipleship, intercession, and service. As our Mother and Queen, she invites us to trust God completely and live as true heirs of His Kingdom.
Let us pray:
> “Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, our life, our sweetness, and our hope. Turn, then, most gracious advocate, your eyes of mercy toward us, and after this exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of your womb, Jesus. Amen.”
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