The Memorare is one of the most beloved Marian prayers in the Catholic tradition, often prayed in moments of need or uncertainty. Attributed to St. Bernard of Clairvaux but first appearing in 17th-century France, it asks Mary to remember her perfect record of intercession. If you’re facing a decision, a worry, or a situation where you need help beyond your own strength, this is a prayer to carry with you today.
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 history of never refusing anyone who sought her intercession. It’s not a prayer that tries to persuade Mary or change her mind, but one that appeals to her maternal constancy. The prayer’s confidence comes from her perfect track record, not from the worthiness of the one praying.
Though traditionally attributed to St. Bernard of Clairvaux (1090–1153), the Memorare in this exact form first appears in French devotional literature in the early 1600s, popularized by Father Claude Bernard (no relation to the saint). The prayer became a favorite of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, who called it her “never-failing prayer.”
Pray it when you’re standing before a problem you can’t solve alone. Say it before a difficult conversation, when waiting for test results, when a friend needs intercession. The prayer’s structure invites you to name your need honestly (“sinful and sorrowful”) and then hand it to Mary without shame.
Carry it through this morning.
