The Memorare prayer is one of the most powerful and heartfelt petitions to the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Catholic tradition. It is a prayer of trust and confidence in Mary’s unfailing intercession, especially during moments of difficulty, distress, or uncertainty. Derived from the Latin word “memorare”, meaning “remember,” the prayer asks Mary to remember her compassion and protection for those who turn to her, invoking her assistance as a loving mother who never abandons her children.
Traditionally attributed to St. Bernard of Clairvaux, the Memorare has been a source of solace for countless faithful who find comfort in Mary’s motherly care. The prayer acknowledges that throughout history, no one who has sought the Blessed Mother’s help has been left unaided. When we recite the Memorare, we entrust our worries and fears to Mary, confident that she will bring our prayers before her Son, Jesus Christ, with her gentle and powerful intercession.
Mary’s role as our advocate is beautifully illustrated in the Wedding at Cana (John 2:1-12), where she intercedes for the couple in need, leading to Jesus’ first public miracle. In the same way, Mary continues to intercede for us, bringing our needs and desires to the heart of her Son. The Memorare prayer reminds us that we are never alone, even in our darkest moments, because Mary is always by our side, ready to help and guide us.
Whether you are struggling with personal challenges, seeking peace, or yearning for protection, the Memorare offers a prayerful refuge, a place where you can trust in the unfailing help of our Blessed Mother. Let this prayer become part of your daily devotion, offering you hope and comfort as you place your petitions in Mary’s loving hands.
The Memorare Prayer
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary,
That never was it known
That anyone who fled to thy protection,
Implored thy help,
Or sought thy intercession,
Was left unaided.
Inspired by this confidence,
I fly unto thee,
O Virgin of virgins, my Mother;
To thee do I come,
Before thee I stand,
Sinful and sorrowful.
O Mother of the Word Incarnate,
Despise not my petitions,
But in thy mercy, hear and answer me.
Amen.
O loving Mother,
I turn to you in my need,
Seeking your intercession and protection.
Guide me closer to your Son,
And help me to trust in His divine will,
That I may find peace in my heart,
And strength in my soul.
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV)
Declarations and Affirmations
- I trust in the powerful intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary to guide and protect me.
- I declare that through the Memorare prayer, I place my worries and burdens in Mary’s loving hands.
- I affirm that Mary’s care and protection lead me closer to Jesus, her Son, who is the source of all comfort and peace.
Scriptures to Support This Prayer
John 2:3-5 (NIV):
“When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, ‘They have no more wine.’ ‘Woman, why do you involve me?’ Jesus replied. ‘My hour has not yet come.’ His mother said to the servants, ‘Do whatever he tells you.'”
1 Peter 5:7 (NIV):
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
Psalm 91:4 (NIV):
“He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.”
The Memorare Prayer
The Memorare is a powerful expression of our confidence in Mary’s intercession. As we pray this prayer, we are reminded that no request is too small or too great for our Blessed Mother, who continually brings our petitions before God. Whether you are seeking help in times of difficulty or simply want to deepen your relationship with Mary, the Memorare is a beautiful prayer of trust, hope, and faith.
Prayer Prompt Faith Activity
As you pray the Memorare today, take a moment to meditate on the ways Mary has guided you through your life. Consider keeping a small journal of answered prayers or moments when you have felt Mary’s presence in your life. Share this prayer with someone who may need Mary’s intercession, or leave a comment below with your prayer intentions. Together, let us seek the comfort and protection of our Blessed Mother, trusting in her powerful intercession.