"HAIL MARY"

We must now consider concerning the first part of this prayer that in 

ancient times it was no small event when Angels appeared to men; and that 

man should show them reverence was especially praiseworthy. Thus, it is 

written to the praise of Abraham that he received the Angels with all 

courtesy and showed them reverence. But that an Angel should show reverence 

to a man was never heard of until the Angel reverently greeted the Blessed 

Virgin saying: "Hail."