Immaculate Mary Lyrics - The Lourdes Hymn
Immaculate Mary Lyrics - A Revered Marian Hymn (Lourdes Hymn)
"Immaculate Mary", often referred to as the "Lourdes Hymn", is one of the most popular and widely sung Marian hymns within the Catholic Church. Its simple melody and devotional lyrics express deep reverence for the Virgin Mary, particularly invoking her under the title of the Immaculate Conception, famously associated with the Marian apparitions in Lourdes, France. These Immaculate Mary lyrics are frequently sung during processions, rosaries, and Marian feast days.
Full Lyrics of "Immaculate Mary" (Lourdes Hymn)
Chorus (Refrain): Ave, Ave, Ave Maria! Ave, Ave, Ave Maria!
Verse 1 Immaculate Mary, your praises we sing, You reign now in heaven with Jesus our King. (Chorus)
Verse 2 In heaven the blessed your glory proclaim, On earth we your children invoke your fair name. (Chorus)
Verse 3 We pray for our Mother, the Church upon earth, And bless, Holy Mary, the land of our birth. (Chorus)
Verse 4 We pray for all sinners, and souls that now stray, From Jesus and Mary in heresy's way. (Chorus)
Verse 5 We pray for the sick, and the poor and the sad, That you Holy Mary would make their hearts glad. (Chorus)
Verse 6 For poor, banished children of Eve, spread your care, O Virgin of Virgins, God chose you to bear. (Chorus)
Verse 7 To you Holy Mother, our Pleading we pour, Oh grant us salvation, and praise evermore. (Chorus)
Note: There can be variations in verses depending on local tradition.
Background and Significance
The hymn "Immaculate Mary" is strongly associated with the Marian apparitions witnessed by Saint Bernadette Soubirous in Lourdes, France, in 1858. During these apparitions, the Blessed Virgin Mary identified herself as "The Immaculate Conception." The melody is traditional, and the English lyrics, while having various contributors over time, capture the spirit of devotion stemming from the Lourdes events.
The Immaculate Mary lyrics focus on praising Mary, acknowledging her queenship in heaven alongside Jesus, and invoking her intercession for the Church, humanity, sinners, the suffering, and for personal salvation. The recurring "Ave Maria" refrain echoes the Hail Mary prayer, reinforcing the hymn's devotional character.
Why "Immaculate Mary" Resonates
This hymn holds a special place in the hearts of many Catholics due to:
- Simple and Devotional Lyrics: The words are easy to understand and express fundamental aspects of Marian devotion – praise, trust, and intercession.
- Association with Lourdes: Lourdes is a major pilgrimage site known for miracles and healing, making the hymn linked to hope and divine intervention.
- Uplifting Melody: The tune is generally uplifting and accessible, making it suitable for congregational singing and fostering a sense of communal prayer.
The enduring popularity of the Immaculate Mary lyrics testifies to the deep-rooted Marian piety within the Catholic faith.
Tags:
Immaculate Mary
, Lyrics
, Lourdes Hymn
, Catholic Hymns
, Marian Hymns
, Ave Maria
, Prayer
, Virgin Mary