Corpus Christi Blog

Some may remember this fundamental question from part one of the old Baltimore Catechism: Why did God make you? Answer: “God made me to know Him, to love Him, and to serve Him in this world, and to be happy with Him forever in heaven.” Man was created with a purpose, and that purpose is to share in the very life of God by loving and serving him who is all love. Then, since this life on earth is transitory, our sharing in his life is intended to continue into eternity as we love and glorify him forever in heaven. The goal of reaching heaven is one every soul shares, even if someone is not necessarily aware of it. However, there are forces that would prefer we not reach that goal and actively work against us every minute of every day. We will now reflect on the enemies of our salvation – the flesh, the world, and the devil – so we can be more aware of the obstacles we face in obtaining eternal happiness.

This is the conclusion of a five-part series in which we have been closely examining each stanza of the Salve Regina. The hymn calls upon Mary under some of her well-deserved titles, such as Queen and Mother of Mercy, by virtue of her being the mother of our King and Savior. It also petitions her under her roles as intercessor and advocate, recognizing her powerful influence with her Son. We will now look at the final two stanzas of this beautiful hymn to better understand the words we pray.

We are continuing a five-part series in which we are closely examining each stanza of the Salve Regina. We’ve looked at some of Mary’s well-deserved titles, such as Queen and Mother of Mercy, and at how her roles as intercessor and advocate are powerful with her Son. Now, we will reflect on the next two stanzas of the hymn to better understand what we are praying in the Salve Regina.