The Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary is both a theological truth and a theme richly present in Catholic hagiography—that is, in the lives, visions, and writings of the saints. Since the early centuries, Mary has been venerated not only as the Mother of God (Theotokos) but also as Queen, reigning beside her Divine Son. This truth, while solemnly established in Catholic doctrine and formally commemorated by the feast instituted by Pope Pius XII in Ad Caeli Reginam (1954), has been witnessed and celebrated in the mystical experiences and writings of many saints long before.
Here are a few highlights from hagiography regarding Mary’s Queenship:
1. The Fathers of the Church
- St. Ephrem the Syrian (4th c.): Often referred to Mary as “Lady” and “Queen,” recognizing her dignity as the New Eve who reigns with Christ the King. He described her as exalted “above the cherubim and seraphim.”
- St. Augustine (5th c.): While focusing on Mary’s humility, he also acknowledges her unique share in Christ’s kingship.
2. Medieval Saints and Doctors
- St. Bernard of Clairvaux (12th c.): Frequently addressed Mary as Queen, particularly in his famous homilies on the Glories of the Virgin. He saw her queenship as founded in her role as Mediatrix of mercy.
- St. Thomas Aquinas (13th c.): Explained that since Christ is King of all creation, it follows necessarily that His Mother shares a royal dignity.
- St. Alphonsus Liguori (18th c.): In The Glories of Mary, he devotes entire sections to Mary’s queenship, showing how she exercises a maternal and regal authority over souls.
3. Mystical Visions of the Saints
- St. Bridget of Sweden (14th c.): In her Revelations, she recounts visions of Mary enthroned in heaven, crowned by her Son, interceding for sinners as a merciful Queen.
- St. Catherine of Siena (14th c.): Testified in her dialogues to Mary’s maternal authority and mediation as Queen and Advocate.
- St. Louis de Montfort (18th c.): In his True Devotion to Mary, he describes her as Queen of Heaven and Earth, ruling all hearts who consecrate themselves to her.
- St. John Bosco (19th c.): In his famous dream of the two pillars (the Church protected by the Eucharist and Mary), Mary appears as a majestic Queen guiding the Church through stormy seas.
4. Liturgical and Devotional Hagiography
The Rosary and the Litany of Loreto (approved in the 16th century) both crown Mary with numerous regal titles: Queen of Angels, Queen of Patriarchs, Queen of Apostles, Queen of All Saints. These prayers are deeply rooted in the lived spirituality of the saints and the faithful throughout the centuries.
Spiritual Meaning
In hagiography, Mary’s Queenship is never portrayed as distant or worldly rule, but as a maternal reign of intercession and mercy. She is Queen precisely because she is Mother—first of Christ the King, and then of all who belong to Him. Saints consistently emphasize that her crown was won through her perfect humility and participation in Christ’s suffering.