Catholic Dictionary

Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

Random Term from the Dictionary:

REGINA COELI

Easter anthem, of unknown authorship, dating from the twelfth century. It has been part of the Liturgy of the Hours, to be said during the Easter season at Compline. It takes the place of the Angelus in Eastertide. The prayer reads:

"O Queen of heaven, rejoice Alleluia.

For He whom you did merit to bear, Alleluia.

Has risen as He said, Alleluia.

Pray for us to God, Alleluia.

Rejoice and be glad, O Virgin Mary, Alleluia.

For the Lord has truly risen, Alleluia.

Let us pray: O God, who by the resurrection of Your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, have been pleased to fill the world with joy, grant, we beseech You, that through the intercession of the Virgin Mary, His Mother, we may receive the joys of eternal life, through the same Christ our Lord. Amen."