Memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary: essential guide, 5 steps

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memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary

The memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary is one of the best-loved devotions in Christian spirituality. Short, direct, and profoundly consoling, it invites believers to ask for Mary’s intercession in times of need. Whether you are new to Christian prayer or returning after many years, understanding how and why the Memorare is used can deepen your spiritual life and bring calm to anxious hearts.

In this guide, we will explore what the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary is, where it comes from, the exact words of the prayer, and practical ways to pray it well. We will also clarify common misunderstandings and suggest thoughtful approaches for personal and family use, all in clear, straightforward language.

What is the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary?

The memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary is a short, traditional supplication that calls upon Mary, the mother of Jesus, to remember believers and to intercede with her Son on their behalf. The title “Memorare” comes from the Latin imperative “Memorare,” meaning “Remember.” Its essence is trust: it expresses confidence that those who turn to Mary with sincere hearts will not be left unaided in their trials.

People use the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary when facing illness, fear, family difficulties, or discernment of important decisions. Many Catholics pray it spontaneously, as a novena (nine days), or alongside other devotions. It is also used as a simple prayer in daily life, especially when words are hard to find but help is urgently needed.

Origins and history of the Memorare

Tradition long attributed the prayer to St Bernard of Clairvaux (12th century). However, modern scholarship suggests the text emerged in the late Middle Ages and was popularised in the 17th century by Father Claude Bernard (1588–1641), a French priest who fervently promoted the prayer after experiencing its consolation. The association with St Bernard likely arises from the prayer’s spirit of trust and love for Mary, which St Bernard famously embodied, rather than from direct authorship.

Over time, the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary spread across Europe and the wider Christian world. Saints and spiritual writers have recommended it as a means to develop childlike confidence in God’s mercy through Mary’s intercession. St Francis de Sales is often cited as someone who prayed the Memorare during a personal crisis, later encouraging others to turn to Our Lady with similar faith and perseverance.

The text of the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary and what it means

Here is one of the most common English versions:

“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.”

What it means, line by line:

“Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary” – We ask Our Lady to keep us in mind, trusting in her maternal care.
“that never was it known…” – The prayer recalls a long tradition of believers testifying that Mary’s help is real, never useless or in vain.
“Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee” – Faith gives courage; we run to Mary as a mother who points us to Christ.
“to thee do I come… sinful and sorrowful” – We come honestly, acknowledging our limits, griefs, and need of mercy.
“O Mother of the Word Incarnate” – A title for Mary that honours Jesus as the eternal Word made flesh.
“despise not my petitions…” – A humble request: do not turn away from my plea, but present it to your Son.

In Catholic belief, honour to Mary never replaces worship due to God alone. Rather, it recognises Mary’s unique role in salvation history and her continuing intercession as the Mother of Jesus. For more background on Marian devotion in general, the Catechism provides helpful guidance on the distinction between worship of God and veneration of Mary and the saints; see the Catechism on the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

How to pray the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary

You can pray the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary anywhere and at any time. There are no special objects or settings required, though some may find a quiet space, a candle, or an image of Mary helpful for focus.

Simple steps

Calm your mind. Take a brief moment of silence and breathe slowly.
State your intention. In your own words, say what you are asking for (help, comfort, wisdom, protection, healing, or courage).
Pray the text of the Memorare slowly and attentively.
Conclude with a moment of trust. You might add, “Mary, my Mother, pray for me,” or simply remain in silence.

Helpful tips for focus

Pray the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary more than once if you feel scattered; repeating it gently can settle the heart.
Unite the words with your breath: a phrase on each exhale can encourage calm and presence.
Consider adding the Memorare at the end of the Rosary, or before important meetings, journeys, or medical appointments.
Use a novena: pray the Memorare daily for nine days for a particular intention.

When to use the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary

People often turn to the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary in moments of urgency, when anxiety makes longer forms of prayer difficult. It can also be a gentle daily habit that keeps your life anchored in trust. Examples include:

Times of family stress: parenting challenges, misunderstandings, or forgiveness after conflict.
Health concerns: illness, surgery, pregnancy, or mental health struggles.
Work and finances: job interviews, big decisions, or uncertainty about the future.
Travelling: asking for protection on journeys.
Grief and loss: as a steadying prayer when words falter.

Many believers find it especially consoling at night, before sleep, or during a short break in a busy day. The memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary can also be shared with friends or family who request prayers; it is easy to learn and remember.

Related devotions and traditions

The Memorare sits within a wider family of Marian prayers and Christian devotions. For example, the Chaplet of Divine Mercy is another popular prayer focused on trust in God’s mercy; you can learn its structure and purpose here: Divine Mercy Chaplet prayer. While distinct in theme, both the Memorare and the Chaplet express confident reliance on God’s loving-kindness.

Across Christian traditions, devotion to Mary varies. While the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary is especially common among Catholics, Christians from other traditions sometimes use it as a private devotion. For a clear overview of differences and shared beliefs, see this comparison: Orthodox vs Catholic.

If you would like a reliable reference text for the Memorare itself, EWTN provides the prayer and brief notes on its history: EWTN: The Memorare prayer text and background. For an accessible overview of origins and variations, see Wikipedia’s entry on the Memorare. Both are helpful for checking wording and context.

Why the Memorare resonates: key themes

Confidence rather than fear

The memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary is aspirational: we ask with confidence, not because we have earned help, but because Mary is a mother who cares. This shift from fear to trust is psychologically and spiritually healthy; it reduces panic and encourages patience.

Honesty about weakness

“Sinful and sorrowful” may sound severe, but it is simply honest. Acknowledging grief, guilt, or confusion allows grace to meet us where we truly are. The Memorare normalises humility and begins healing with truth.

Christ at the centre

Mary is called “Mother of the Word Incarnate,” pointing us to Jesus as God-with-us. The memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary is not an end in itself; it is a way of turning to Christ through the one who knows Him most intimately.

Common mistakes and thoughtful guidance

Using the prayer as a “guarantee.” The Memorare expresses strong confidence, but it is not a magic formula. Catholic teaching understands intercession as a request made in love, trusting God’s wisdom in the outcome.
Rushing the words. Hurrying through the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary can leave you more anxious than before. Slow down; one careful recitation is better than several hurried ones.
Praying in isolation from life. Allow your prayer to shape your actions: seek reconciliation, take responsible steps, and accept support from others as part of God’s answer.
Forgetting gratitude. If your circumstances improve or you feel strengthened, remember to thank God and express gratitude for Mary’s intercession.

Practical ways to include the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary in daily life

Morning anchor: Say the Memorare after you wake, naming the day’s main concern.
Midday pause: If stress builds, pause for one minute and pray slowly.
Evening review: Before sleep, offer a Memorare for the people you worried about during the day.
Family habit: When appropriate, pray the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary together before meals or outings.
During a novena: Pray it once daily for nine days for a specific intention, keeping notes about any changes you notice in circumstances or in your own heart.

Variations and languages

The Memorare exists in slightly different English translations, most of which preserve the same meaning. Older forms may use “thee” and “thy,” while newer versions use “you” and “your.” The Latin original begins: “Memorare, o piissima Virgo Maria.” If you pray in another language, choose a translation that helps you pray with attention and trust.

For a broader view of Marian devotion in Christian history, including references to saints and congregations who cherished the Memorare, the New Advent Catholic Encyclopaedia on St Bernard offers commonly cited background: New Advent: St Bernard of Clairvaux.

Examples of intentions for the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary

“Mary, please intercede for my family; bring peace to our home.”
“Mother of the Word Incarnate, guide my medical team and comfort me in this treatment.”
“Our Lady, help me choose wisely about this job opportunity.”
“Gentle Mother, console my friend who is grieving and show me how to support them.”
“Blessed Virgin Mary, protect us on this journey and keep us safe.”

Balanced expectations: how God answers prayer

The memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary helps us present our needs with humility. Sometimes answers are clear and quick; at other times they unfold slowly. Catholics believe that Mary prays with us and for us, and that God’s response—whether a change in circumstance, a growth in patience, or a fresh source of help—comes in the right way and time. If you struggle with waiting, let the Memorare become a steady rhythm that keeps you grounded.

Recommended external resources

For a fuller context on Marian prayer and how it complements confidence in God’s mercy, see also the Catechism’s discussion of Christian prayer and the communion of saints. The above pages offer a trustworthy framework for understanding how the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary fits within the wider life of faith.

Frequently asked questions about memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary

Is the Memorare a Catholic prayer only?

The Memorare is closely associated with Catholic devotion to Mary, but any Christian who feels drawn to ask Mary to pray for them may use it privately. Its core request is for intercession, which many Christians recognise as asking another member of the Body of Christ to pray on our behalf.

Who wrote the Memorare?

It is traditionally linked to St Bernard of Clairvaux, but the exact authorship is uncertain. The prayer took shape in the late Middle Ages and was eagerly promoted in the 17th century by Father Claude Bernard. In spirit, it reflects centuries of Christian trust in Mary’s maternal care.

Is the Memorare in the Bible?

No, the text of the Memorare is not in the Bible. However, it is rooted in biblical themes: Mary’s unique role in salvation history (Luke 1–2), the wedding at Cana where Mary intercedes (John 2:1–11), and the general Christian practice of interceding for one another.

How often should I say the Memorare?

There is no strict rule. You might pray the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary once each morning, repeat it during stressful moments, or say it as part of a nine-day novena for a particular intention. The best frequency is the one that helps you stay prayerful and at peace.

Can I say the Memorare for someone else?

Yes. You can offer the Memorare for friends, family, the sick, or anyone in need. Many people find it a loving way to support others when they cannot be physically present or do not know exactly what to say.

Does the Memorare guarantee that I will get what I ask for?

No prayer is a guarantee or a transaction. The Memorare is an act of faith and trust. Catholics believe Mary intercedes for us and that God responds in wisdom and love, sometimes in ways we did not anticipate. A good approach is to be clear in your request and remain open to how God may answer.

What if I struggle with the older wording (“thee,” “thy”)?

Use a translation that helps you pray with attention. Modern versions in contemporary English are available and preserve the meaning. The heart of the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary is not the exact wording, but the trust and sincerity with which it is prayed.

Conclusion on memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary

The memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary is a compact, powerful way to place your needs into God’s hands through the intercession of Our Lady. It blends honesty about human weakness with deep confidence in God’s mercy, helping us move from worry to trust. Whether you pray it once a day, in emergencies, or as part of a novena, it can become a steady companion in the ups and downs of life.

We have looked at what the prayer says, how to pray it, and why it resonates. Rooted in Scripture’s vision of intercession and upheld by centuries of Christian experience, the Memorare points always to Christ, the Word made flesh. If you are looking for a simple practice that strengthens faith and calms the heart, the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary is a beautiful place to begin.

As you make this prayer your own, take your time, speak from the heart, and remain open to the ways God may answer—through changed circumstances, new courage, or the quiet assurance that you are not alone. In every case, the memorare prayer to the blessed virgin mary offers hope, steadiness, and the gentle care of a mother who leads us closer to her Son.

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