Ave Maris Stella, Hail Star of the Sea, is one of the most beloved ancient hymns to Our Lady. It hails Mary as the star that guides us safely through the storms of life to Christ.
The Hymn
Hail, O Star of the ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
ever sinless Virgin,
gate of heavenly rest.
Taking that sweet Ave
which from Gabriel came,
peace confirm within us,
changing Eva's name.
Break the sinners' fetters,
light on blindness pour,
all our ills expelling,
every bliss implore.
Show thyself a Mother;
may the Word divine,
born for us thine Infant,
hear our prayers through thine.
Virgin all excelling,
mildest of the mild,
free from guilt preserve us,
meek and undefiled.
Praise to God the Father,
honor to the Son,
in the Holy Spirit,
be the glory One. Amen.
When to Pray This Prayer
At Vespers, in times of difficulty and danger, and whenever you seek Mary's sure guidance.
About This Prayer
Dating to at least the ninth century, this hymn names Mary Stella Maris, Star of the Sea, the bright star by which sailors and all the faithful find their way home to God.
Related Prayers
New prayers every week. Subscribe to Universal Catholic Media on YouTube to pray along.
Text: traditional English translation of Ave Maris Stella (Edward Caswall, public domain).