Ave Maris Stella (Hail, Star of the Sea) dates to at least the 9th century, and is traditionally attributed to Saint Venantius Fortunatus (who lived in the 6th century). It invokes Our Lady under one of Her most ancient titles.
Hail, star of the sea,
Nurturing Mother of God,
And ever Virgin
Happy gate of HeavenAve, maris stella, Dei mater alma,
atque semper virgo, Felix cæli porta.Receiving that “Ave”
From the mouth of Gabriel,
Establish us in peace,
Transforming the name of Eve.Ave, maris stella, Dei mater alma,
atque semper virgo, Felix cæli porta.Loosen the chains of the guilty,
Send forth light to the blind,
Our evil do thou dispel,
Entreat for us all good things.Ave, maris stella, Dei mater alma,
atque semper virgo, Felix cæli porta.Show thyself to be a Mother:
Through thee may he receive prayer
Who, being born for us,
Undertook to be thine own.Ave, maris stella, Dei mater alma,
atque semper virgo, Felix cæli porta.O unique Virgin,
Meek above all others,
Make us, set free from sins,
Meek and chaste.Ave, maris stella, Dei mater alma,
atque semper virgo, Felix cæli porta.Bestow a pure life,
Prepare a safe way:
That seeing Jesus,
We may ever rejoice.Ave, maris stella, Dei mater alma,
atque semper virgo, Felix cæli porta.Praise be to God the Father,
To the Most High Christ glory,
To the Holy Spirit
honour, to the Three equally. Amen.Amen.