Three Hail Marys

His purpose was "to honor the spotless Virginity of Mary and to preserve a perfect purity of mind, heart and body in the midst of the dangers of the world".

The practice of saying three Hail Marys in the evening somewhere about sunset had become general throughout Europe in the first half of the 14th century and it was recommended and indulgenced by Pope John XXII in 1318 and 1327.

[7]Later on, St. Leonard of Port Maurice had "the three Ave Marias recited morning and evening in honor of Mary Immaculate, to obtain the grace of avoiding all mortal sins during the day and night; moreover, he promised in a special manner eternal salvation to all those who proved constantly faithful to this practice.

"[This quote needs a citation] Doctor of the Church St. Alphonsus Liguori (1696–1787) adopted this pious practice and highly recommended it.

"[8] Thus, it has been recommended as a daily practice for people who have received the Sacrament of Confirmation that they pray the Three Hail Marys for "purity of mind, heart and body"[This quote needs a citation] after examination of conscience, before going to bed.

St. Virgilius Council 185, Knights of Columbus, in Newtown, Connecticut, initiated a Three Hail Mary's Prayer Drive in support of those affected by the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

[9][10] One variation attributed to Cardinal Leo Joseph Suenens is to pray the rosary substituting three Hail Marys for the traditional decade.