The Memorare
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.
Traditional English version.
Pray the Memorare every day with a reminder.
Start praying with Rosary & MercyKey takeaways
- Memorare is Latin for "Remember."
- It is a prayer of confident petition, used in any urgent need.
- It was long credited to St. Bernard but is a later prayer, popularized in the 1600s.
What is the Memorare?
The Memorare is a short, direct prayer asking for Mary's help. It has been wrongly credited to St. Bernard of Clairvaux in the 1100s. Scholars trace it to a 15th-century prayer, and it became widespread after Father Claude Bernard promoted it in 17th-century France.
When to pray it
Catholics pray it in moments of need: illness, anxiety, a hard decision, or when asking for a special intention. Many also pray it as a nine-day novena.
Questions people ask
Who wrote the Memorare?
The author is unknown. It is not by St. Bernard of Clairvaux, though many old books say so. It grew out of a 15th-century prayer.
Does the Memorare guarantee an answer?
It expresses trust that Mary has never failed to help. The Church teaches that Mary intercedes, but God answers as he wills (CCC 2677).
Can I pray the Memorare for someone else?
Yes. Many people pray it for family, for the sick or for a special need.
Related prayers
Pray through what you are reading, every day, with a gentle reminder.
Start praying with Rosary & MercySources: Catechism of the Catholic Church 2673-2679 · USCCB