Memorial of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Mary, the Queen Who Said Yes to God

Today we celebrate the Memorial of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and our readings draw us into a deeper understanding of why the Church gives Mary such a title and honor. From the prophet Isaiah and the Gospel of Luke, we receive a profound message about who Mary is in God’s plan and how she participates in the reign of her divine Son.

In the first reading from the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 9:1-6), we hear the renowned prophecy:

‘A child is born to us, a son is given us… upon his shoulder dominion rests. They name him Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, Father-Forever, Prince of Peace.’

This is one of the most powerful Messianic prophecies in the Old Testament. It speaks of the coming of a king who will establish peace, justice, and righteousness forever. That king, we know, is Jesus Christ. But every king in Israel had a queen—typically, not his wife, but his mother. In the tradition of ancient Israel, the queen mother held a place of honor and influence in the kingdom. With that in mind, Mary’s role as Queen makes perfect sense: as the mother of the King of Kings, she is rightfully honored with a royal title. Her queenship is rooted in her Son’s kingship.

In the Gospel from Luke (Luke 1:26-38), we witness the angel Gabriel announcing to Mary that she would conceive and bear a son, and that he would be great and ‘will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father.’ Again, royal language and fulfillment of prophecy. Mary’s yes—her fiat—is the moment when this promise begins to be fulfilled. By her trust, her humility, and her cooperation with God’s plan, the King enters the world, and the kingdom begins its quiet unfolding.

Mary does not become Queen by asserting power or seeking status. She becomes Queen through surrender. She gives her whole self to God—body, mind, and heart. And this is the great paradox of her queenship: it is rooted in service, in humility, and in her unwavering response of faith.

Her queenship also reflects the glory that God desires for all who follow Him. Mary, assumed into heaven and crowned as Queen, is a sign of hope for us. She shows us what becomes of those who say yes to God, who trust in His word, and who follow Christ faithfully. She is not only royal but motherly—one who reigns with compassion and intercedes for us with love.

So, what does all this mean for us? First, it invites us to imitate Mary in her openness to God’s will. Like her, we are called to say yes, even when the road ahead is unclear. Second, it assures us that our Queen is also our loving Mother—always praying for us, always bringing our needs before her Son. And finally, it gives us hope: Mary’s glory shows us the destiny God has prepared for those who are faithful.

Let us today entrust ourselves anew to our Queen and Mother. May we honor her not just with our words, but with hearts committed to love, obedience, and faith.

Holy Mary, Queen of Heaven, lead us to your Son. Pray for us, guide us, and teach us how to walk as faithful servants in the kingdom of Christ our King. Amen.