Hail Mary
The Hail Mary, known in Latin as the Ave Maria, joins the angel Gabriel's greeting and Elizabeth's blessing of Mary with a humble plea for her prayers. It forms the heart of the Rosary and is among the most beloved prayers in Christian devotion. Through it the faithful ask the Mother of Jesus to intercede for them, now and at the hour of death.
- Also known as: Ave Maria
- Role: Marian devotion
- Key Scripture: Luke 1:28, Luke 1:42
Go deeper in My Daily Bread
Read Hail Mary's full story, the people and places connected to it, and how it speaks into today's readings.