The Queenship of Mary: Celebrating the Mother of God as Queen of Heaven and Earth
The celebration of the Queenship of Mary, instituted by Pope Pius XII in 1954 through the encyclical Ad Caeli Reginam, honors the Virgin Mary as Queen of Heaven and Earth. This feast day, observed on August 22, is closely connected to the Assumption of Mary, which takes place on August 15. The two celebrations highlight the completion of Mary’s journey from her earthly life to her exaltation in heaven.
The Queenship of Mary is deeply rooted in Scripture and Tradition. St. John the Evangelist’s vision in the Book of Revelation provides a vivid image that has long been associated with Mary: “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” (Revelation 12:1). This symbolic portrayal of Mary as the crowned woman in heaven is seen as a fulfillment of her role as the Mother of God and the New Eve.
Mary’s queenship, however, is not just a recognition of her divine motherhood. It is also a reflection of her humble faith and obedience to God’s will. In the Gospel of Luke, when a woman praises Mary for being the mother of Jesus, He responds, “Rather, blessed are they who hear the Word of God and keep it” (Luke 11:27-28). This underscores that Mary’s true greatness lies not only in her role as the mother of Jesus but in her unwavering faith and commitment to living out God’s Word.
Pope Pius XII emphasized this dual aspect of Mary’s queenship in Ad Caeli Reginam. He highlighted that Mary’s exaltation as Queen of Heaven and Earth is a reward for both her unique role in the divine plan and her exemplary faith. Her queenship, therefore, serves as a reminder for all Christians to strive for holiness through faith and obedience to God.
The Queenship of Mary also has a deep theological significance. It affirms Mary’s special place in the salvation history of humanity. As the Mother of the Redeemer, she has a unique relationship with Christ and His Church. Her queenship reflects her role as an intercessor, guiding the faithful and leading them closer to her Son, Jesus.
Celebrating the Queenship of Mary invites the faithful to reflect on her virtues of humility, obedience, and faith. It reminds us that true greatness in God’s eyes comes from listening to His Word and living according to His will. As we honor Mary as our Queen, we are called to follow her example and seek to grow in our relationship with God, trusting in His plan for our lives.
The Queenship of Mary is a beautiful celebration that highlights the Virgin Mary’s unique role in God’s plan of salvation. It is a reminder of her faith, obedience, and love for God, which led to her being crowned Queen of Heaven and Earth. As we celebrate this feast, may we be inspired by Mary’s example and seek to live our lives in faithful service to God, knowing that, like her, we too are called to share in the glory of His Kingdom.
