Marian
Alma Redemptoris Mater (O Loving Mother of Our Redeemer)
Marian prayer · Latin text
One of the four seasonal Marian antiphons sung at the close of Compline, traditionally from the beginning of Advent until the Presentation on 2 February. It is generally ascribed to the eleventh-century monk Hermann Contractus; in the books it is followed by a seasonal versicle and collect, which change at Christmas Eve.
O loving Mother of our Redeemer, gate of heaven, star of the sea, Hasten to aid thy fallen people who strive to rise once more. Thou who brought forth thy holy Creator, all creation wond'ring, Yet remainest ever Virgin, taking from Gabriel's lips that joyful "Hail!": be merciful to us sinners.
When it is prayed
- advent
- christmastide
- compline
- night-prayer
