This meditation on the Virgin Mary is inspired by a vision of Saint Hildegard of Bingen, taken from her major work, the Scivias. In this illuminated manuscript, Mary sits enthroned above the choirs of angels, who stand above the apostles, patriarchs and prophets, virgins, confessors and martyrs.
“The Choirs of the Blessed”
From Hildegard of Bingen’s Scivias (c. 1185).
Scivias-Codex Plate Thirty-Five
In this illuminated vision, Mary takes her place in radiant majesty — not merely present, but reigning in light. Crowned in glory, Mary sits above the angelic choirs. Below them stand apostles, patriarchs, prophets, virgins, confessors, and martyrs. Each group gathers in reverence, forming a sacred procession beneath her gaze.
This is not a rigid hierarchy. It is a living icon — a cosmic liturgy. Heaven and earth sing together, and Mary, Queen of the Blessed, holds the rhythm at the heart of it all.
Mary, Crowned in Light
Mary does not reign with power, but with presence. Her throne is not distant, but radiant with compassion. She gathers the saints not beneath her, but around her — as a mother gathers her children, as a song gathers its notes.
So ask yourself:
Am I ready to step into this communion of light and let it draw me closer to the heart of grace?
The Communion of Saints
The figures surrounding Mary are not anonymous. They are apostles, prophets, martyrs — but also virgins, confessors, and seekers. They represent every path, every story, every soul drawn toward the divine.
Therefore, reflect:
Where do I stand in this great procession of grace? What song does my life contribute to the celestial choir?
Mary, Bridge Between Heaven and Earth
Mary’s throne is not only above — it is within. She bridges heaven and earth, holding the memory of humanity and the promise of eternity.
Can I welcome this truth:
I belong to this sacred lineage, and divine love enfolds my life within its maternal embrace.
Prayer of Intention to accompany the inner journey initiated by the Virgin Mary according to Saint Hildegard of Bingen
O Mary, Queen of the Blessed,
you who gather the saints in light,
draw us into your communion of grace.
Help us to find our place in the great song of heaven,
and to live as notes of harmony in a world longing for peace.
Amen.