In the Angelus we declare the mystery of the Incarnation.
This devotional prayer contains three confessions, commemorating the announcement by the Angel to Mary, Mary’s response of obedience, and St John’s declaration of the Word made flesh. Each is followed by the Hail Mary. It was first documented by 13th-century Franciscans in Italy, but it had likely developed from earlier monastic traditions.
It is traditionally said three times a day – at morning, noon and evening prayer – but it may be recited at any time.
The text below is from the Daily Office of the Society of St Francis.
The Angelus
The Angel of the Lord brought tidings to Mary
and she conceived by the Holy Spirit.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and in the hour of our death.
Behold, the handmaid of the Lord;
Let it be to me according to your word.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and in the hour of our death.
The Word became flesh
And dwelled among us.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and in the hour of our death.
Pray for us, O holy Mother of God,
that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Let us pray:
We beseech you, O Lord,
pour your grace into our hearts,
that as we have known the Incarnation of your Son, Jesus Christ,
by the message of an angel,
so by his Cross and Passion
we may be brought to the glory of his Resurrection.
Amen.