Today the Church celebrates the memorial of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, observed each year on 22 August. Although this devotion may not be as widely known as other Marian feasts, it carries deep theological meaning and reflects Mary’s unique role in salvation history.
Does this devotion have a solid foundation, or is it merely symbolic? To answer, we look at the nature of kingship and Mary’s participation in the mission of her Son.
Christ the King and His Conquest
Our Lord Jesus Christ is King of all creation. His kingship is not an honorary title but one He earned through His Incarnation and His saving sacrifice. A true king belongs to the people he governs, and Christ fulfilled this by taking on human nature (John 1:14).
His kingship was not granted by mere proclamation. It was won through His Passion and death on the Cross (Philippians 2:8–11). Christ reigns by love offered to the end and by redemption carried to completion.
Mary, Queen by Association and Loving Co-operation
If Christ is King, then Mary His Mother is rightfully Queen. Her queenship is not merely honorary. It is a title that flows from her intimate co-operation in the redemptive mission of her Son.
From the Annunciation (Luke 1:26–38), Mary accepted divine maternity along with the trials that would accompany it. Tradition presents her as a heart united to the Heart of Jesus in prayer and sacrifice for the human family.
Her co-operation reached its summit at Calvary (John 19:25–27), where she stood beside the Cross and shared in the suffering of the Redeemer. For this reason the Church venerates her as Queen, for she is perfectly united to the King.
A Queen Who Draws Us Closer to the King
Mary’s queenship is maternal and merciful. She draws us to Christ and helps make us more acceptable to Him through her intercession. As our Queen and Mother, she continues to pray for us in heaven, and prayers made to her with confidence never go unanswered.
A Call to Devotion
On this feast we honour Mary as Queen of Heaven and Earth and renew our trust in her care. She who suffered and sacrificed with her Son now reigns with Him in glory. Let us approach her with confidence and ask her to guide us ever closer to the King of Kings.
