The Memorare is one of the Church’s most beloved Marian prayers, traditionally attributed to St. Bernard of Clairvaux but first appearing in 17th-century France. When you need help and feel alone, this prayer asks Mary to intercede for you with the confidence that she has never turned anyone away.
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 with 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.
Traditionally St. Bernard of Clairvaux, but first attested in 17th-century France
How this prayer works
The Memorare asks Mary to remember her track record: she has never refused anyone who came to her for help. You’re not asking her to grant what you want, but to hear you and intercede with her Son. The prayer names you as “sinful and sorrowful,” which is freeing because you don’t have to clean yourself up before approaching her.
The word “Memorare” is Latin for “remember.” St. Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153) was a Cistercian abbot and Doctor of the Church known for his Marian sermons, though the prayer’s first written record comes from a French priest, Claude Bernard, in 1638. Either way, it has been prayed by Catholics in every century since, including St. Thérèse of Lisieux, who called it “my favorite prayer.”
Pray it when you’re stuck and don’t know what else to say. Before a difficult conversation, when you’re worried about someone you love, when you’ve made a mess and need help finding the way forward. Say it slowly, one phrase at a time, and let the words sink in before you move to the next.
Carry it with you this week.
