O Virgin Mary, I pray this prayer associated with Saint Bernard, asking for your protection and help.
Prayer of Saint Bernard to the Virgin Mary
The Memorare
Remember,
O most gracious Virgin Mary,
that never was it known
that anyone who fled to your protection,
implored your help,
or sought your intercession
was left unaided.
Inspired by this confidence,
I fly unto you,
O Virgin of virgins, my Mother.
To you I come; before you I stand,
sinful and sorrowful.
O Mother of the Word Incarnate,
despise not my petitions,
but in your mercy
hear and answer me.
Saint Bernard was born in Burgundy, France, in 1090. He became a prominent Cistercian abbot and spiritual writer whose works express profound devotion to the Virgin Mary.
Saint Bernard's Devotion to the Blessed Virgin
Saint Bernard's writings help Christians understand love for the Mother of God. Tradition also associates him with the final invocation of the Hail Holy Queen: "O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary."
When the storms of passion rise,
look to the Star and call upon Mary.
When the force of temptation
threatens to sink the vessel of your spirit,
lift up the eyes of faith,
look to the Star,
and call upon Mary.
When the memory of your many sins
threatens to cast you into the abyss of despair,
look toward the Star of heaven
and pray to the Mother of God.
Following her, you will not lose the way.
Calling upon her, you will not despair.
Guided by her,
you will safely reach the heavenly harbor.