A Path to Grace

Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary – Prayer Guide & Devotion

Explore the full Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary—its history, meaning, and traditional prayers recited by Catholics around the world.

Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary – Complete Text, History & Meaning

The Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also known as the Litany of Loreto, is one of the most cherished devotional prayers in Christian tradition. For centuries, believers have recited this sacred litany to honor the Blessed Mother, seek her intercession, and find spiritual peace. This devotion continues to be recited in churches, shrines, and homes around the world, including by visitors to the House of the Virgin Mary in Ephesus, where Mary is believed to have spent her final years.

In this guide, you will find the complete litany, its history, the meaning behind its sacred titles, and how this prayer is connected to the spiritual heritage of Ephesus.

What Is the Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary?

The Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary is one of the most cherished Marian prayers in Christian tradition. It reflects centuries of devotion and is recited by believers seeking peace, protection, and spiritual guidance. Many pilgrims also pray this litany at the House of the Virgin Mary in Ephesus, connecting its sacred words with the holy atmosphere of Meryem Ana Evi.

Formally approved by the Catholic Church in the 16th century, the litany has roots in much earlier Christian tradition. Each invocation honors Mary with a unique spiritual title—such as Mother Most Pure, Refuge of Sinners, and Queen of Peace—highlighting her role in salvation history.

This prayer remains a meditative path for millions of believers, deepening their relationship with the Blessed Mother and offering comfort, reflection, and spiritual protection in daily life.

Full Text of the Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ, have mercy on us.
Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ, hear us.
Christ, graciously hear us.

God, the Father of Heaven, have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us.
God the Holy Spirit, have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God, have mercy on us.

Holy Mary, pray for us.
Holy Mother of God, pray for us.
Holy Virgin of virgins, pray for us.

Mother of Christ, pray for us.
Mother of the Church, pray for us.
Mother of Divine Grace, pray for us.
Mother Most Pure, pray for us.
Mother Most Chaste, pray for us.
Mother Inviolate, pray for us.
Mother Undefiled, pray for us.
Mother Most Amiable, pray for us.
Mother Most Admirable, pray for us.
Mother of Good Counsel, pray for us.
Mother of Our Creator, pray for us.
Mother of Our Savior, pray for us.

Virgin Most Prudent, pray for us.
Virgin Most Venerable, pray for us.
Virgin Most Renowned, pray for us.
Virgin Most Powerful, pray for us.
Virgin Most Merciful, pray for us.
Virgin Most Faithful, pray for us.

Mirror of Justice, pray for us.
Seat of Wisdom, pray for us.
Cause of Our Joy, pray for us.
Spiritual Vessel, pray for us.
Vessel of Honor, pray for us.
Singular Vessel of Devotion, pray for us.
Mystical Rose, pray for us.
Tower of David, pray for us.
Tower of Ivory, pray for us.
House of Gold, pray for us.
Ark of the Covenant, pray for us.
Gate of Heaven, pray for us.
Morning Star, pray for us.
Health of the Sick, pray for us.
Refuge of Sinners, pray for us.
Comforter of the Afflicted, pray for us.
Help of Christians, pray for us.

Queen of Angels, pray for us.
Queen of Patriarchs, pray for us.
Queen of Prophets, pray for us.
Queen of Apostles, pray for us.
Queen of Martyrs, pray for us.
Queen of Confessors, pray for us.
Queen of Virgins, pray for us.
Queen of All Saints, pray for us.
Queen Conceived Without Original Sin, pray for us.
Queen Assumed Into Heaven, pray for us.
Queen of the Holy Rosary, pray for us.
Queen of Families, pray for us.
Queen of Peace, pray for us.

Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us.

History of the Litany and Its Connection to Ephesus

Although the litany became widely known through the Shrine of Our Lady of Loreto in Italy, its spiritual meaning goes beyond one location. Many pilgrims recite the litany at the House of the Virgin Mary in Ephesus, Türkiye, where a long-standing tradition connects Mary’s final years to the region.

Ephesus has been a center of early Christian worship for centuries. Today, millions visit the site to light candles, drink holy water, and pray in silence. The litany is deeply intertwined with this atmosphere of devotion, peace, and reflection.

Meaning Behind the Titles in the Litany

Mother of Mercy
Recognized as a compassionate mother interceding for humanity.

Morning Star
A symbol of hope and light guiding believers toward Christ.

Mystical Rose
A title expressing spiritual beauty and the mystery of divine grace.

Queen of Peace
Associated with Mary’s role in bringing peace to hearts, families, and nations.

These titles form a meditative path, offering believers a deeper understanding of Mary’s place within Christian faith.

Why This Prayer Remains Important Today

The Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary remains a powerful devotion because it brings:

• calm in moments of anxiety

• spiritual protection

• deeper reflection

• connection with ancient Christian tradition

For many pilgrims, reciting this litany at the House of the Virgin Mary in Ephesus enhances the spiritual experience, as the peaceful hills and sacred atmosphere encourage contemplation and prayer.

Pilgrimage Tradition and the Litany in Ephesus

In Ephesus, visitors from around the world continue to pray this litany for:

• healing

• protection of their families

• clarity during personal challenges

• gratitude

• spiritual comfort

This tradition has become an important part of the identity of the House of the Virgin Mary, making Ephesus one of the most significant Marian pilgrimage destinations in the world.

Closing Prayer

O Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Peace and Mother of Mercy, guide us, protect our families, and pray for us now and always. Amen.