The Memorare is one of the most beloved and widely recited prayers in the Catholic tradition. Its opening words, "Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary," capture a profound trust in the intercession of the Mother of God. This prayer is not a plea of desperation, but a confident appeal rooted in the conviction that Mary never fails those who seek her help. For centuries, the faithful have turned to the Memorare in moments of distress, danger, or urgent need, finding comfort and consolation in its simple yet powerful words. Whether whispered in a quiet church, recited during a family Rosary, or prayed as a "flying novena" in times of crisis, the Memorare remains a cherished expression of devotion to Mary, the Mother of the Word Incarnate.
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 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.
Origin and Meaning
The Memorare is traditionally attributed to Saint Bernard of Clairvaux (1090–1153), the great Cistercian abbot and Doctor of the Church known for his ardent devotion to the Virgin Mary. However, the prayer in its current form was popularized in the 17th century by Father Claude Bernard, a French priest who distributed it widely and credited it with many conversions and healings. The title "Memorare" comes from the Latin word for "remember," which is the first word of the prayer.
The biblical foundation of the Memorare is found in the Gospel of John, at the Wedding at Cana. When the wine ran short, Mary turned to her Son with confidence, saying, "They have no wine" (John 2:3). Jesus initially replied, "Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come" (John 2:4). Yet Mary did not waver. She instructed the servants, "Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it" (John 2:5). Jesus then performed his first public miracle, turning water into wine. This episode reveals Mary's unique role as intercessor: she brings our needs to Jesus, and her intercession is powerful because she always directs us to do whatever he tells us. The Memorare echoes this confidence: we flee to Mary's protection, implore her help, and seek her intercession, trusting that she will never abandon us.
The Prayer Explained Part by Part
"Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary"
The prayer begins with a gentle plea for Mary to recall her own merciful nature. The word "remember" is not a request for her to forget, but an appeal to her unfailing compassion. The title "most gracious" emphasizes her fullness of grace and her willingness to help.
"that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided"
This is the core of the prayer's confidence. It declares a universal truth: no one who has turned to Mary has ever been abandoned. This statement is not a promise of always getting what we want, but a testament to Mary's unfailing care. She always aids us in the way that is best for our salvation.
"Inspired with this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother"
Because of this trust, we come to Mary with boldness. "Fly" suggests urgency and eagerness. Calling her "Virgin of virgins" honors her perpetual virginity and purity, while "my Mother" expresses the intimate relationship every Christian has with Mary as our spiritual mother.
"to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful"
We approach Mary in humility, acknowledging our sins and sorrows. We do not come pretending to be worthy, but as needy children seeking a mother's comfort.
"O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen."
Finally, we invoke Mary as the Mother of Jesus, the Word made flesh (John 1:14). We ask her not to despise our requests, but to listen and respond with mercy. The word "despise" is strong, but it underscores our unworthiness; we trust that Mary's mercy overcomes our sinfulness.
When and How to Pray the Memorare
The Memorare is a versatile prayer suitable for any time, but it is especially fitting in moments of urgent need, distress, or temptation. Many Catholics pray it daily as part of their morning or evening devotions. It can be recited during the Rosary, often after the Hail Marys, or as a standalone prayer. Some include it in the Angelus or the Regina Coeli. In times of crisis, the Memorare is a go-to prayer because it is short, direct, and filled with confidence.
One popular devotion is the "Flying Novena" (or "Memorare Novena"), which consists of praying the Memorare nine times a day for nine consecutive days. This practice was beloved by Saint Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa), who recommended it for urgent intentions. The term "flying" suggests the swiftness with which Mary responds to our pleas.
The Memorare can also be prayed in family settings, before a statue or image of Mary, or in the quiet of one's heart. It is appropriate before any important decision, during illness, in times of anxiety, or when seeking guidance. Because the prayer expresses total confidence in Mary's intercession, it is especially powerful when prayed with faith and perseverance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Memorare a prayer of petition or a prayer of trust?
It is both. The Memorare is a petition because we ask Mary to hear and answer us, but it is grounded in an extraordinary trust: we begin by recalling that no one who has sought Mary's help has been left unaided. This confidence is the foundation of the prayer.
Who wrote the Memorare?
The prayer is traditionally attributed to Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, but its current form was popularized by Father Claude Bernard in the 17th century. The exact authorship is uncertain, but the prayer's spirit reflects the profound Marian devotion of the Cistercian tradition.
What is the "flying novena" of the Memorare?
The "flying novena" is a practice of praying the Memorare nine times a day for nine consecutive days for a specific intention. It is called "flying" because it is believed to bring swift answers. Saint Teresa of Calcutta often recommended this devotion.
Can I pray the Memorare for non-Catholics?
Yes, the Memorare is a prayer for all Christians and indeed for anyone who seeks Mary's intercession. Mary is the Mother of the Church and desires the salvation of all people. Praying the Memorare for someone who is not Catholic is a beautiful act of charity.
Is the Memorare in the Bible?
The Memorare itself is not a biblical prayer, but its inspiration comes from Scripture, particularly the Wedding at Cana (John 2:3-5). The prayer reflects Mary's role as intercessor and her unwavering trust in her Son.
When should I pray the Memorare?
You can pray the Memorare at any time, but it is especially recommended in times of urgent need, distress, temptation, or when you feel overwhelmed. Many Catholics pray it daily as part of their devotional life, and it is a staple of the Rosary and other Marian devotions.
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