Understanding the Auspice Maria Symbol and Its Significance

Black leather bookmark with Auspice Maria symbol

As Traditional Catholics, and Dominican Tertiaries, being under the protection of Mary is woven into everything we do. Even our Business name “Holy Queen Handmade” is directed to her. 

In 2020, when we started this leather business, we dedicated it to Mary and took as our motto “Ave, Regina Caelorum” (meaning Hail, Queen of Heaven).

The symbol of the Auspice Maria traditionally means - “under the protection of Mary.” It is a symbol close to my heart. My personal Missal cover even has the Auspice Maria symbol on the front! 

Marian Blue Catholic Leather Missal Cover

The intertwined A (for Ave) and M (Maria) in the symbol is below a crown and surrounded by a circle of twelve stars. The crown symbolizes the Queenship and Immaculate nature of Mary.

This symbol is ancient and can be found all over the world. Cathedrals, liturgical embroidery, and even official seals for holy orders use this image to call upon our Mother for her help during times of trial and to help us get closer to her Son. 

There is even a fascinating ancient personal prayer for the Coptic Christmas Liturgy found on a papyrus dated back to AD 250!

It reads: “Beneath your compassion we take refuge, Theotokos. Our petitions do not despise in time of trouble, but from danger rescue us. Only Holy, Only Blessed.”

Be sure to check out the original article for the Coptic prayer on Aleteia to see the fragment of papyrus and read the original Greek prayer. 

Jess from Holy Queen Handmade

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What would you put the Auspice Maria on?

• Custom Missal Cover
• Leather Wallet
• Journal Cover
• Sunglasses Case

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