The Memorare Prayer
The Memorare Prayer is one of the most beloved Catholic prayers dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The word Memorare means “Remember” in Latin, and the prayer begins with the plea, “Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary…” This sacred invocation is a cry from the heart, appealing to Mary’s unfailing intercession and motherly compassion. It has been prayed by countless believers throughout history in times of joy, sorrow, danger, and deep need.
Praying The Memorare Prayer connects us to a rich tradition of Marian devotion, reminding us that Mary is not only the Mother of Jesus but also our mother, given to us by Christ on the cross (John 19:26-27). Her intercession has been a source of strength and comfort for generations. Through this prayer, we are reminded that no one who has sought her help or asked her prayers has been left unaided.
This Prayer offers powerful ways to reflect on, pray, and personalize this timeless devotion. Each section combines Scripture with heartfelt supplication, inviting you to draw closer to God through Mary’s loving care. Whether you are praying for healing, peace, protection, guidance, or gratitude, this collection will help you deepen your trust in her intercession and God’s providence.
The Memorare is a powerful Marian prayer that has brought comfort, healing, and divine help to countless believers for centuries. Addressed to the Blessed Virgin Mary, it calls upon her unfailing intercession and motherly care in times of need. Many saints, including St. Bernard of Clairvaux, cherished this prayer for its deep trust in Mary’s compassion. The prayer reminds us that no one who fled to her protection or sought her help was ever left unaided. When recited with faith, the Memorare becomes a lifeline for those in distress, a source of courage for those facing trials, and a shield for those in spiritual battles. In this collection, we will explore heartfelt renditions of the Prayers, each accompanied by a Scripture verse to strengthen our trust and inspire our devotion.
What is The Memorare Prayer
The Memorare is one of the most beloved Marian prayers in the Catholic tradition, often recited in moments of trouble, fear, or uncertainty. Its name comes from the Latin word memorare, which means “remember”. The first word of the prayer is a direct call to the Blessed Virgin Mary, urging her to remember the promises of her motherly care and powerful intercession.
This prayer is more than just a request — it is a proclamation of trust in Mary’s unfailing help. It acknowledges her role as the compassionate Mother who listens to her children and never abandons those who come to her with faith.
Historical Origin Of The Memorare Prayer
The Memorare is traditionally attributed to Saint Bernard of Clairvaux (1090–1153), a French abbot and Doctor of the Church known for his deep devotion to Mary. While some historical debate exists about whether he was the exact author, the spirit of the prayer reflects his Marian theology — that Mary is both a loving mother and a powerful intercessor.
It became more widely known through the work of Father Claude Bernard (1588–1641), who promoted it passionately after experiencing a miraculous healing he believed came through reciting the Memorare. From then on, the prayer spread across Europe and eventually the whole world.
The Words of the Momerare Prayer
Here is the prayer in its traditional form:
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 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 Breakdown Of The Momerare Prayer
1.“Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary…”
This is not implying that Mary forgets, but it is a heartfelt way of asking her to act according to her loving nature. It is a reminder to her of the promises made through her maternal role.
2.“That never was it known…”
The prayer draws strength from history — the confidence that no one who has asked for Mary’s help in faith has ever been abandoned.
3. “Fled to thy protection, implored thy help…”
These words speak of running to Mary in moments of fear, much like a child runs to their mother for safety and comfort.
4. “Inspired by this confidence…”
This is the heart of the prayer — trust. We turn to her not out of superstition but out of confidence in her role as a loving and powerful advocate.
5. “O Virgin of virgins, my Mother…”
A tender and personal acknowledgment that Mary is not just the Mother of Jesus but also our spiritual mother.
6. “Despise not my petitions…”
An appeal for acceptance and mercy, trusting she will not turn away even if we are unworthy.
7. “In thy mercy hear and answer me…”
The final plea, sealing the prayer with faith that she will respond in love.
When to Pray the Memorare
The Memorare can be prayed at any time, but it is particularly powerful in moments of:
- Urgent need or distress
- Seeking protection from danger
- Asking for healing — physical, emotional, or spiritual
- Times of uncertainty and decision-making
- Strengthening faith during trials
Some Catholics also include it in novenas, rosary devotions, or during nighttime prayers.
Spiritual Significance
Praying the Memorare is more than reciting words — it’s about entering into a relationship of trust with Mary. It reminds us that we are never alone in our struggles. Through her intercession, she leads us closer to Jesus, her Son, who is the ultimate answer to every need.
This prayer also teaches confidence in God’s mercy, for Mary’s role is always to guide us back to Him. Many who have prayed it testify to sudden peace, surprising answers to prayer, and a renewed sense of hope.
A Living Tradition
Even today, from small villages to grand cathedrals, the Memorare is whispered by millions each day. It’s been called “a prayer that never fails” — not because every request is answered exactly as we ask, but because Mary always responds in the way that is best for our souls.
The Memorare Prayer to The Blessed Virgin Mary
1. The Memorare for Urgent Help
When life presents urgent trials—whether sickness, financial difficulty, or sudden danger—this prayer calls upon Mary’s quick and compassionate intercession.
“Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.” – Psalm 50:15
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known in the history of the world that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession was left unaided. Filled with this deep and unshakable confidence, I now fly to you, O Virgin of virgins, my most loving Mother. You see my heart, you know my troubles, and you understand the weight I carry. Before you I kneel, sinful and sorrowful, yet certain that you will not turn me away empty-handed.
O Mother of the Word Incarnate, who once carried the Savior of the world in your womb, I entrust this urgent need to you. Speak for me before the throne of your Son, whisper my name to Him with the tenderness only you can give, and secure for me the grace I so desperately require. I know your love is without measure and your compassion beyond understanding. Despise not my petitions, but in your mercy, hear me, answer me, and grant me the peace that comes from knowing you have taken my cause as your own. Amen.
2. The Memorare for Healing
For moments of sickness or emotional pain, this prayer seeks Mary’s intercession for God’s healing touch.
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who turned to you for help was abandoned. With faith in your maternal care, I come to you now, burdened by illness, weakened in body, or troubled in spirit. O Virgin of virgins, my Mother, I place before you the wounds that only God’s grace can heal—whether they are wounds of the flesh, the heart, or the soul. You who comforted the afflicted, prayed for the suffering, and stood steadfast at the foot of the Cross, stand now beside me in this hour of weakness.
Through your powerful intercession, obtain for me the healing my body needs, the strength my spirit longs for, and the courage to endure until God’s perfect plan is fulfilled in me. I believe that even in pain, God’s love is present, and through your prayers, that love will be poured out abundantly. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but look upon me with eyes of mercy, wrap me in your mantle of love, and guide me toward the wholeness only Christ can give. Amen.
3. The Memorare for Family Protection
Families face countless visible and invisible dangers daily; this prayer entrusts loved ones to Mary’s safeguarding care.
“The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” – Psalm 121:8
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that any child of yours who sought refuge under your care was left defenseless. Today, I place my entire family into your immaculate hands and under your loving protection. You know each one of us—our joys, our struggles, our fears, and our hopes. Just as you sheltered the Child Jesus and St. Joseph in the Holy Family, shelter us now from all harm, danger, and evil.
Guard our home from sickness, shield our hearts from bitterness, and protect our minds from the lies of the enemy. Walk with us in every journey, stand beside us in every trial, and celebrate with us in every joy. Intercede for us that we may remain united in faith, strong in love, and steadfast in hope. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but graciously hear me as I call upon your name to keep watch over my loved ones day and night. Let your prayers be a wall of protection around us and your love be the light that guides us safely to Christ. Amen.
4. Prayer for Help in Suffering
When pain and trials overwhelm us, our hearts naturally cry for comfort. This prayer seeks the intercession of the Blessed Mother for consolation and the strength to endure with faith.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
O Blessed Virgin Mary, my Mother and refuge, I kneel before you today with a heart heavy from the weight of suffering and trials that seem too great to bear. You, who stood at the foot of the Cross, watching your Son suffer out of love for humanity, know the depths of sorrow and pain. I bring before you my struggles, my tears, and my fears, asking you to wrap me in your mantle of love and protection. Intercede for me before your Son, that I may find strength in my weakness, hope in my despair, and light in my darkness. Teach me to trust in God’s timing, to embrace my cross with courage, and to persevere until His glory is revealed in my life. Mother of Mercy, be my comfort, my counselor, and my guide until this trial is transformed into a testimony of God’s unfailing love. Amen.
5. Prayer for Peace of Mind
In times of confusion and mental unrest, we can turn to Mary for help in finding the peace that comes from God alone.
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” – Isaiah 26:3
O sweet and gentle Mother Mary, I come to you with a restless mind and a troubled heart. My thoughts are clouded with worry, and my spirit is unsettled by the storms around me. Just as you kept your heart fixed on God’s promises in times of uncertainty, teach me to anchor my mind in His truth. Drive away the anxious thoughts that seek to steal my joy and replace them with the peace that surpasses all understanding. Intercede with your Son to calm the waves within my heart as He once calmed the sea. Cover me with your mantle, so that in your motherly embrace I may rest without fear. Lead me into the quiet pastures of God’s love, where I can breathe deeply in His presence and be renewed. Amen.
6. Prayer for Forgiveness
When we fall into sin, Mary’s intercession can help us return to God’s mercy with humility and repentance.
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” – 1 John 1:9
O Mother of Mercy, I come before you burdened by the weight of my sins, ashamed of the ways I have turned away from your Son. I have wounded His heart by my selfishness, my pride, and my disobedience. Yet I know that His mercy is greater than my failings. Dearest Mother, help me to approach His throne of grace with true repentance, trusting that His love never fails. Just as you interceded at Cana, asking Jesus to meet the needs of the moment, I beg you now to intercede for me, that my heart may be cleansed and renewed. Lead me to the confessional with a contrite spirit and the courage to confess all. Help me to avoid the occasions of sin and to walk daily in the light of His truth. Amen.
7. Prayer for Family Unity
Families often face misunderstandings and divisions. This prayer calls on Mary’s intercession for peace and harmony.
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8
O Queen of the Family, you know the joys and struggles of family life. You nurtured Jesus with love, guided Him with wisdom, and cared for Him with tenderness. I place my family into your hands today—our joys, our struggles, our disagreements, and our dreams. Mother, where there is anger, sow seeds of patience; where there is division, bring unity; and where there is pain, pour out healing. Intercede for us before your Son, that we may learn to love one another with humility and forgiveness. Let your motherly example inspire us to serve one another and place God at the center of our home. Cover us under your mantle, protect us from every evil influence, and lead us together to the peace of Christ. Amen.
8. Prayer for Protection at Night
As the day ends, we can entrust our safety and peace to Mary’s maternal care.
“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.” – Psalm 4:8
O Blessed Virgin Mary, watchful Mother of God’s children, I come to you as the night falls, seeking your loving protection. Just as you tenderly watched over the sleeping Child Jesus, watch over me and my loved ones tonight. Guard our home from harm, shield us from the snares of the evil one, and keep our hearts at peace. If fear or restlessness tries to disturb my sleep, remind me that your presence is near and that you are interceding for me before your Son. Let my dreams be filled with His peace, my body be refreshed, and my soul awakened tomorrow with gratitude. Mother, be the watchful star that guides me through the night into the dawn of God’s mercy. Amen.
9. The Memorare Prayer for Divine Healing
When sickness weighs on the body or spirit, the Memorare can bring peace, hope, and a reminder of God’s mercy.
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3
Most Blessed Virgin Mary, I come before you with a humble and wounded heart, carrying the weight of illness and weakness. You who have been the comforter of the afflicted and the refuge of the troubled, please turn your loving eyes toward me in this time of need. Mother, you understand pain, loss, and sorrow, and yet you never ceased to trust in the Father’s will. Intercede for me now before the throne of God. Ask your Son, Jesus, the Divine Physician, to lay His healing hands upon me, restoring my health, renewing my strength, and granting me the peace of mind that comes from His presence. I surrender my pain into your gentle care, trusting that you will carry my petition to Jesus with the same love that you carried Him in your womb. Amen.
10. The Memorare Prayer for Inner Peace
This prayer can quiet the storms within and remind you of God’s ever-present care.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” – John 14:27
Dearest Mother Mary, I turn to you with a heart restless and burdened by worry. Life’s uncertainties have unsettled my mind, and I long for the stillness of God’s peace. You, who kept your heart serene even in the shadow of the Cross, know well how to rest in the Father’s plan. I ask you to take my fears, my anxieties, and my constant overthinking, and place them into the hands of Jesus. Wrap me in the mantle of your love, so that I may feel safe and secure in His mercy. May the winds of doubt be calmed and the waves of trouble stilled, as I place my trust entirely in God. Mother, be my comfort in the night and my calm in the morning. Amen.
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11. The Memorare Prayer for Protection Against Evil
This prayer seeks the Blessed Mother’s intercession for safety from harm and temptation.
“But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.” – 2 Thessalonians 3:3
O Mother of Perpetual Help, I call on you in faith and trust, asking you to guard me from all harm. Surround me with your motherly care and shield me from the snares of the enemy. You crushed the head of the serpent by your faithfulness to God; I ask you now to crush every plan of darkness that seeks to harm my soul. Intercede for me to your Son, that His precious Blood may cover me, my home, and my loved ones. Keep me rooted in His truth, steadfast in His love, and safe in His light. May I walk in holiness and remain always under your watchful gaze. Amen.
12. The Memorare Prayer for Strength in Trials
When life feels overwhelming, this prayer can bring courage and renewed faith.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13
Blessed Virgin Mary, I feel the weight of trials pressing upon me, threatening to drain my strength and steal my hope. You stood at the foot of the Cross and witnessed suffering beyond measure, yet you never turned away from God’s will. Teach me to face my challenges with the same faith and courage that you showed. Help me not to grow weary or lose heart, but to find strength in the promises of your Son. When my energy fades, carry me in your prayers. When my hope wanes, whisper to me that God is still working for my good. Mother, you are my refuge in times of trouble; please remain with me through this storm until the light of victory shines again. Amen.
13. The Memorare Prayer for Deliverance from Fear
Fear can paralyze the spirit, but this prayer invites trust in God’s perfect love.
“Perfect love drives out fear.” – 1 John 4:18
Holy Mother Mary, fear has crept into my heart, robbing me of peace and clouding my faith. I know that God’s love is greater than all my worries, yet I struggle to rest in that truth. You who trusted the angel’s word without knowing all the details of God’s plan, teach me to surrender my fears into His hands. Pray for me, that my heart may be strengthened and my mind made calm. Let the warmth of your motherly love melt away the cold grip of fear, and help me to walk in bold trust. Mother, you are my guiding star in the dark—lead me safely into the arms of Jesus, where fear has no power. Amen.
14. Prayer for Healing Through Mary’s Intercession
When we face sickness, pain, or brokenness, the Memorare reminds us that we have a mother who is deeply concerned about our well-being. Through Mary, we can bring our petitions to Jesus, the ultimate Healer.
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3
O Most Gracious Virgin Mary, you who have walked alongside the suffering and stood at the foot of the Cross, I come before you with a heart burdened by pain. I ask for your intercession in this time of physical, emotional, or spiritual illness. Present my needs to your Son, Jesus, who healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, and restored hope to the hopeless. May His healing touch bring restoration to my body, peace to my mind, and strength to my spirit. Help me to trust in His timing and remain steadfast in faith, knowing that through your prayers, nothing is impossible with God.
15. Prayer for Courage in Life’s Trials
Life’s trials often leave us feeling weary and overwhelmed. The Memorare teaches us to lean on Mary for courage, trusting that she will bring our needs before the throne of God.
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9
O Blessed Mother, you who never turned away from the will of God, grant me the courage to face the trials that stand before me. When fear whispers that I am not enough, remind me of God’s promises. Help me to trust in the One who calms the storm and walks on the waves. Through your loving intercession, give me a steadfast heart, a spirit that does not waver, and a faith that stands firm in adversity. Lead me to cling to your Son, knowing He is my refuge and my strength.
16. Prayer for Peace in the Home
A peaceful home is a sanctuary where love, faith, and understanding flourish. Through the Memorare, we can ask Mary to intercede for harmony within our families.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” – John 14:27
O Mary, Queen of Peace, I invite you into my home and into the hearts of my family members. Bring with you the calm assurance of your Son’s presence. Where there is misunderstanding, sow understanding; where there is anger, plant forgiveness; and where there is worry, bring trust in God’s plan. Let your maternal care guide us into deeper unity, so that our home may be a reflection of the love between you and Jesus. Cover our dwelling with your mantle and keep us always under your protection.
17. Prayer for Strength in Faith
Faith is a gift that sustains us through both joy and hardship. By praying the Memorare, we can ask Mary to help us grow in faith and remain steadfast in our walk with God.
“For we live by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7
O Most Holy Virgin Mary, you believed the angel’s message without hesitation and followed the will of God with perfect trust. Strengthen my faith, that I may hold fast to God’s promises even when the road ahead is unclear. When doubt tries to take root, fill my mind with the truth of God’s Word. Teach me to see life through the eyes of faith, to rely not on my own understanding but on the guiding hand of your Son. Through your prayers, may my faith grow stronger each day, becoming a light to others who seek hope in Christ.
18. Prayer for Deliverance from Fear
Fear can paralyze the heart and cloud the mind. The Memorare invites us to bring our fears to Mary, who will lead us into the safety of her Son’s embrace.
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
O Mother of Mercy, when fear grips my heart, lead me swiftly to your Son, the Prince of Peace. Calm my anxious thoughts and remind me that I am not alone. Fill my spirit with courage, confidence, and the knowledge that God is my protector. Help me to release every worry into His hands, trusting that He will never abandon me. Through your constant intercession, guard me against the lies of fear and strengthen me to live boldly in the light of Christ’s truth.
19. Prayer for Gratitude and Joy
Gratitude opens the heart to God’s blessings and joy renews the spirit. Through the Memorare, we can ask Mary to help us live each day with a thankful and joyful heart.
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18
O Blessed Virgin Mary, you who sang the Magnificat in praise of God’s goodness, help me to see His blessings in every part of my life. Teach me to be grateful not only in moments of abundance but also in seasons of trial, knowing that His hand is at work in all things. Fill my heart with joy that is rooted in the unshakable love of Christ. Let my life be a song of praise and a witness of God’s goodness, so that others may also glorify Him.
20. Prayer for Perseverance in Holiness
Holiness is a lifelong journey that requires endurance and trust in God’s grace. The Memorare can be our guide in asking Mary to help us persevere in our calling to live a holy life.
“But the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” – Matthew 24:13
O Immaculate Mother, you who lived in perfect obedience to God, help me to persevere in the path of holiness. When the way feels long and difficult, strengthen my resolve to keep walking in the light of Christ. Remove from me the distractions and temptations that lead me away from Him. Keep my eyes fixed on eternity, where the reward of faithfulness awaits. Through your loving intercession, may I finish my race with joy, confident that I will one day see the face of your Son and rest forever in His presence.
Conclusion
The prayer is more than just a set of words we recite; it is a deep and timeless expression of faith, hope, and trust in the powerful intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. When we pray it with sincerity, we are entering into the same confidence that countless saints, faithful believers, and desperate souls have clung to for centuries. Its words are a gentle reminder that Mary is not only the Mother of our Lord but also our spiritual mother, attentive to our needs and ready to bring them before the throne of God.
In moments of fear, uncertainty, and distress, the Memorare becomes a lifeline—pulling us out of despair and anchoring us in the love and mercy of God. It encourages us to lay down our burdens without hesitation, knowing that no one who has sought Mary’s help or implored her protection has ever been abandoned. This is the very heartbeat of the prayer: absolute confidence in God’s care through His chosen Mother.
Praying the Memorare regularly does more than solve immediate problems—it builds a spiritual habit of trust. Over time, it softens the heart, strengthens faith, and inspires deeper devotion to God. It reminds us that we are never truly alone, even in the silence of the night or the storms of life. Through Mary’s intercession, God’s grace flows into our lives in ways we may not always see at first but will come to recognize in time.
As we make this prayer part of our daily walk with Christ, let us pray it not only for ourselves but for others—for the sick, the struggling, the lost, and the brokenhearted. Let us whisper it in quiet reflection, proclaim it in urgent need, and meditate on it when we seek peace. The Memorare is a treasure of the Church, a bridge between our human weakness and God’s divine strength, and a constant reminder that Mary, our Mother, will always lead us closer to her Son.
May every time we pray the Memorare draw us nearer to the heart of Jesus, through the love and protection of His Blessed Mother. And may we, like generations before us, find in its words the comfort, courage, and hope to carry on with unwavering faith.
