# The chaplet of the twelve stars by Saint Andrew Avellino
*2008-04-26*

> Bill Young introduces and leads the recitation of the Chaplet of the Twelve Stars, a devotion attributed to Saint Andrew Avellino that honors the queenship and virtues of the Virgin Mary.

## Introduction to the Chaplet

Various chaplets have been composed to recall the twelve stars around the head of the Virgin Mary, which symbolize her queenship, her privileges, and her virtues. Saint Andrew Avellino recommended that reciting this chaplet should not be neglected for the sake of any other occupation. It is said that someone, while reciting it, saw an angel who offered every Hail Mary to the Virgin, who in turn appeared to be very contented. Through this devotion, we can obtain graces more easily and find great help at the moment of death.

## Opening Prayers

The devotion begins in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. We call upon God for aid and offer the Glory Be and the Apostles' Creed, affirming our belief in God the Father Almighty, Jesus Christ His only Son, and the Holy Spirit, as well as the Holy Catholic Church and the communion of saints.

## Honoring the Holy Trinity

The chaplet is structured around the Trinity. First, we address the Eternal Divine Father, thanking Him for the power with which He preserved the Virgin Mary, His beloved daughter, from original sin. This is followed by an Our Father and four Hail Marys, concluding with the prayer: 'O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.'

Next, we address the Eternal Divine Son, thanking Him for the infinite wisdom with which He preserved the Virgin Mary, His true and sweet mother, from original sin. Again, we pray an Our Father and four Hail Marys, followed by the prayer to the Immaculate Conception.

Finally, we address the Eternal Divine Spirit, thanking Him for the great love for which He preserved the Virgin Mary, His most pure spouse, from original sin, followed by the prescribed prayers.

## Conclusion and Gratitude to Saint Anne

The devotion concludes by addressing the Most Holy Trinity, offering profound adoration and thanks for the singular privilege granted to the blessed and most glorious Saint Anne. We honor her as the human mother who gave birth to a child totally free from original sin. The chaplet ends with a triple recitation of the Glory Be.

*Reciting the Chaplet of the Twelve Stars is a powerful way to honor the Blessed Mother's purity and seek her intercession for graces in this life and at the hour of death.*