How many times a day does the prayer 'Hail, Holy Queen' rise to heaven from devout lips! Yet few know that this hymn was not only a prayer but also the crusaders' war anthem, and its final words were added by Saint Bernard. This story is a testimony to the power of faith that inspired soldiers and saints.
The Crusade Hymn
The initiative to use 'Salve Regina' as a war hymn is attributed to Adhemar of Monteil, Bishop of Le Puy, who participated in the Council of Clermont where the First Crusade was decided. Adhemar, as papal legate, chose this antiphon to become the crusaders' hymn. Initially, the antiphon ended with the words 'nobis post hoc exilium ostende' – 'after this exile show us Jesus, the blessed fruit of thy womb'.
St. Bernard's Contribution
The triple acclamation that now concludes the prayer was added by St. Bernard. It is told that on Christmas Eve 1146, the saint, as papal legate, was sent to Germany. Entering Speyer, he was received with great pomp – the bishop, clergy, and townspeople came out to meet him. The emperor and the German princes accorded him all the honors due to a papal legate.
As the procession entered the church, the choir sang 'Salve Regina' – the favorite antiphon of the devout Abbot of Clairvaux. Bernard, accompanied by the emperor and the crowd, was deeply moved. When the singing ended, he fell to his knees three times, and each time he added one acclamation, walking toward the altar where an image of Mary shone:
“O clemens! O Pia! O dulcis Virgo Maria! – O clement! O loving! O sweet Virgin Mary!”
These words, born of the saint's joy and reverence, became an inseparable part of the prayer. They testify that true faith is not dry formalism but a living relationship with the Mother of God, full of love and trust.
Why This Matters Today
This story reminds us that Christian traditions are not accidental – they were born from living faith and historical circumstances. The hymn 'Salve Regina', sung by crusaders before battles, can today be our spiritual hymn in the fight for faith and values. It teaches us that prayer is not an escape from reality but a source of strength.
Today, when the world strives to erase the Christian heritage, we must remember such stories and pass them on to future generations. 'Salve Regina' is not just a beautiful melody but a testimony of faith that inspired entire generations. May this hymn remind us too that the Mother of God is our intercessor and protector.
Source: Orações e milagres medievais — https://oracoesemilagresmedievais.blogspot.com
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