The history of the title of “Our Lady, Queen of Peace” dates to the early 16th century when Jean de Joyeuse presented a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary to his bride, Françoise e Voisins, on their wedding day. Unlike other statues of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mary was depicted holding an olive branch in her right hand and the Prince of Peace – Jesus Christ – seated in her left arm. The statue became a family heirloom that was passed down to Jean’s grandson, Henri Joyeuse, who joined the Capuchin’s in Paris, France. The statue remained with the Capuchins in Paris for the next two-hundred years. It was at this time that the statue was re-named: Notre Dame de Paix – Our Lady of Peace.
Prayer for the Immaculate Queen of Peace
Most holy and immaculate Virgin, Mother of Jesus and our loving Mother, being his Mother, you shared in his universal kingship. The prophets and angels proclaimed him King of peace. With loving fervor in our hearts we salute and honor you as Queen of peace.
We pray that your intercession may protect us and all people from hated and discord, and direct our hearts into the ways of peace and justice which your Son taught and exemplified. We ask your maternal care for our Holy Father who works to reconcile the nations in peace. We seek your guidance for our President and other leaders as they strive for world peace.
Glorious Queen of peace, grant us peace in our hearts, harmony in our families and concord throughout the world. Immaculate Mother, as patroness of our beloved country, watch over us and protect us with your motherly love. Amen.