The title Queen of Heaven (Regina Caeli in Latin) is attributed to the Virgin Mary in the Christian tradition, notably within the Catholic Church, the Orthodox Church, and, to some extent, by Anglicanism and certain Lutheran evangelical churches such as the Church of Sweden.
Origins and Theological Foundations
This title stems from the Council of Ephesus in the 5th century, where Mary was proclaimed Theotokos, meaning Mother of God. This recognition led the faithful to honor Mary not only as the mother of Christ but also as the Heavenly Queen, sharing in the glory of her risen Son.
Liturgical Feast of Mary Queen
The feast of Mary Queen was established by Pope Pius XII in 1954 through the encyclical Ad Caeli Reginam. Initially celebrated on May 31, it was moved to August 22, eight days after the Assumption, thus emphasizing the link between Mary's assumption into heaven and her crown as Queen.
Liturgical and Devotional Expressions
The title Queen of Heaven appears in various prayers and hymns, notably the Easter antiphon Regina Caeli, sung during the Easter season instead of the Angelus, expressing the joy of the Resurrection.
Artistic Representations
In Christian art, Mary is often depicted crowned, illustrating her role as Queen of Heaven. These representations, such as the Coronation of the Virgin, have been common since the Middle Ages and reflect the veneration of Mary as the heavenly sovereign.
