🙏 Memorare – Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary
The Memorare is a beautiful and powerful Catholic prayer of intercession to the Blessed Virgin Mary. This prayer expresses our confidence in Mary's maternal care and her ability to bring our needs before her Son, Jesus Christ. The Memorare reminds us that we can always turn to Mary for help, knowing that she has never been known to leave anyone unaided.
Full Text of the 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.
Meaning and Reflection
The Memorare is a prayer of profound trust and confidence in Mary's maternal love and intercessory power. This Catholic prayer begins with the word "Remember," calling to mind Mary's faithfulness and her track record of helping those who turn to her. The prayer acknowledges that throughout history, Mary has never abandoned anyone who has sought her help.
The prayer's language is deeply personal and intimate, addressing Mary as "my mother" and expressing our vulnerability as "sinful and sorrowful." This reflects the authentic relationship we can have with Mary—one of childlike trust and dependence. We recognize our need for help and our confidence that Mary will not turn us away.
The Memorare teaches us about the power of intercessory prayer and the special role that Mary plays in our spiritual lives. As the Mother of God, she has a unique relationship with Jesus and can bring our needs before Him with maternal love and concern. This prayer encourages us to develop a personal devotion to Mary and to trust in her ability to help us grow closer to her Son.
Related Prayers
Hail Mary
The beloved prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary, combining the words of the Angel Gabriel and Saint Elizabeth.
The Rosary
The powerful Catholic devotion combining vocal prayer with meditation on the mysteries of our salvation.
Angelus
A traditional Catholic prayer that commemorates the Incarnation of Jesus Christ and honors the Blessed Virgin Mary.