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Marian Prayer

The Angelus

A traditional Catholic prayer honoring the Incarnation, usually prayed morning, noon, and evening outside the Easter season.

The Angelus pauses the day to remember the mystery of the Incarnation: the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. It is traditionally prayed three times a day, except during the Easter season, when it is replaced by the Regina Caeli.

Pray the AngelusEaster Prayer: Regina Caeli

What it is

What Is the Angelus?

The Angelus is a traditional Catholic prayer centered on the Annunciation and Incarnation.

It recalls Mary's yes to God and the coming of Christ into the world.

Its simple structure uses short verses, three Hail Marys, and a concluding prayer.

By praying it faithfully, Catholics learn to let ordinary hours return to Jesus.

Daily rhythm

When Is the Angelus Prayed?

  • Traditionally it is prayed three times a day: morning, noon, and evening.
  • It is often associated with bells calling Christians to pause and pray.
  • Common times are 6:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 6:00 PM, though families can adapt the rhythm.
  • It is generally prayed outside the Easter season.
  • During the Easter season, Catholics traditionally pray the Regina Caeli instead.

Pray it simply

How to Pray the Angelus

  1. Begin with the Sign of the Cross.
  2. Pray the versicle and response.
  3. Pray a Hail Mary after each of the three verses.
  4. Pray the concluding prayer.
  5. End with the Sign of the Cross.

Prayer text

The Angelus Prayer Text

Copy only the prayer text if you want to keep it nearby for noon prayer or family prayer.

V. The Angel of the Lord declared unto Mary. R. And she conceived of the Holy Spirit. Hail Mary... V. Behold the handmaid of the Lord. R. Be it done unto me according to thy word. Hail Mary... V. And the Word was made flesh. R. And dwelt among us. Hail Mary... V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God. R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. Let us pray. Pour forth, we beseech Thee, O Lord, Thy grace into our hearts, that we, to whom the Incarnation of Christ Thy Son was made known by the message of an angel, may by His Passion and Cross be brought to the glory of His Resurrection. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

Why it matters

Why the Angelus Matters

It brings the mystery of Christ into ordinary time and ordinary duties.

It teaches recollection in the middle of work, family life, and distraction.

It honors Mary by leading us more deeply to Jesus.

It joins Scripture, devotion, and daily life in one short prayer.

A practical beginning

Simple Angelus Practice

  • Pray at noon if three times a day is too much at first.
  • Set a quiet reminder instead of waiting for the perfect mood.
  • Pray slowly enough to notice the mystery of the Word made flesh.
  • Let one line stay with you through work, family life, or study.
  • Families can pray a simple shared version together.

During the Easter season

Pray the Regina Caeli Instead

From Easter through Pentecost, the Angelus is traditionally replaced by the Regina Caeli, a joyful Marian prayer celebrating the Resurrection.

Regina Caeli

Related links

Continue in Prayer

Regina CaeliPrayer LibraryHoly RosaryLiturgical LivingEaster Season