The Angelus is an ancient prayer celebrating the Angel Gabriel's annunciation of the Lord to the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is recited at 6 A.M., noon, and 6 P.M., and the time for recitation was traditionally marked by the ringing of church bells (which were known as the Angelus bells).
During the Easter season, the prayer Regina Coeli Laetare is recited in place of the Angelus.
The Angelus
V. The Angel of the Lord declared unto Mary.
R. And she conceived of the Holy Spirit.
Hail Mary, etc.V. Behold the handmaid of the Lord,
R. Be it done unto me according to Thy word.
Hail Mary, etc.V. And the Word was made flesh,
R. And dwelt amongst us.
Hail Mary, etc.V. Pray for us, O most 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, as we have known the Incarnation of Christ Thy Son by the message of an Angel, so by His Passion and Cross we may be brought to the glory of the Resurrection. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
