Evolution

Blessed Are You!

The Evolution Of The Prayer “Hail Mary”

Catholics have grown up with the “Hail Mary”. Here is the evolution of this familiar prayer. As early as the sixth century, Christians joined two Scripture passages to form a prayer to Mary:

The words of the Angel Gabriel at the Annunciation:

“Hail favored one! The Lord is with you.” (Luke 1:38)

Wording used in the Hail Mary: Hail Mary, full of Grace, the Lord is with you.

The words of Elizabeth at the Visitation: “Most Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.” (Luke 1:42)

Wording used in the Hail Mary: Blessed are you among Women, and blessed is
the fruit of your womb, Jesus.

^{In
the 16th century a third piece was added so that the prayer would close with a
petition:

Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners
now and at the hour of our

death. Amen.}

Thus, the prayer known as the “Hail Mary” was born. It has become one of the most
familiar prayers of Catholic devotional life.

However; the “Hail Mary” isn’t just for Catholics, “anyone” can pray this beautiful
prayer and many do.

^{THE
HAIL MARY}

Hail Mary, full of Grace, the Lord is with you. Blessed are you among Women,
and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us
sinners now and at the hour of death. Amen.