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 thine 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.
What Is the Memorare?
The Memorare is one of the most beloved Marian prayers in Catholic tradition. Though often attributed to St. Bernard of Clairvaux, the prayer developed over time within the Church’s devotional life and has long been cherished as a powerful expression of trust in the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Its opening words — “Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary…” — immediately set a tone of confidence, reminding the one who prays that countless believers throughout history have turned to Mary for help and have found comfort in her maternal care.
At its heart, the Memorare is a prayer of trust and surrender. It acknowledges human weakness and sorrow while placing hope in God’s mercy, sought through the loving intercession of Mary. Catholics do not pray to Mary as a source of grace herself, but ask her to intercede before her Son, Jesus Christ, on their behalf. The Memorare beautifully reflects this relationship: the prayer is addressed to Mary, yet its hope rests firmly in God’s mercy and compassion.
Many Catholics turn to the Memorare during times of anxiety, fear, or spiritual dryness. The prayer invites the believer to approach Mary with confidence, not because of personal merit, but because of her closeness to Christ and her role as a spiritual mother to all believers. Repeating the Memorare can become a steady rhythm of trust — a reminder that no prayer offered in faith is ever wasted.
As part of a daily prayer routine, the Memorare can be prayed on its own, after the Rosary, or during moments of personal struggle. Its gentle, reassuring language makes it especially comforting in times of uncertainty, offering peace through surrender and hope through trust in God’s loving care.
The Memorare is often prayed slowly and reflectively. The video below offers a simple recitation you can pray along with during your personal devotion.
