Reflection: The Memorare

Mary was petitioned as "Mother of God" at least by the 3rd Century, as is evidenced by the discovery of the Sub Tuum prayer: This prayer, known in Latin as "Sub tuum Praesidium" and first found in a Greek papyrus, c. 300, is the oldest known prayer to the Virgin.

O Holy Mother of God, we turn to you for protection. Listen to our prayers and help us in all our needs. Save us from every danger, glorious and blessed Virgin.

The "Memorare" is a sixteenth-century version of a fifteenth-century prayer that began "Ad sanctitatis tuae pedes, dulcissima Virgo Maria." Claude Bernard (1588-1641) popularized the idea that the "Memorare" was written by Saint Bernard.

Joseph and Mary brought Jesus to the Temple at the time of the Presentation. Mary's heart was pierced when she heard Simeon's words, as she held her precious baby.

Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, His Mother, "Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted and you yourself a sword will pierce so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed."  Luke 2:34-35

Mary did not understand, but she kept all these things pondering them in her heart. Our Mother Mary understands our sufferings. Let us bring our hurts and sorrows to her and ask her to intercede to Jesus. With Mary, let us unite our sufferings and bring her our petitions by praying the Memorare.

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to you for your protection, implored your help or sought your intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, we fly to you, O Virgin of virgins, our Mother.  To you we come, before you we stand, sinful and sorrowful.  O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not our petitions, but in your mercy, hear and answer them. Amen.

Saint Bernard sums up the great spiritual advantage of true devotion to our Blessed Mother. Let us pray that wonderful prayer of Saint Bernard as a trusting child before Mary. Saint Bernard prayed:

"Look to the star of the sea, call upon Mary … in danger, in distress, in doubt, think of Mary, call upon Mary. May her name never be far from your lips, or far from your heart … If you follow her, you will not stray; if you pray to her, you will not despair; if you turn your thoughts to her, you will not err. If she holds you, you will not fall; if she protects you, you need not fear; if she is your guide, you will not tire; if she is gracious to you, you will surely reach your destination."

On earth, the Blessed Virgin offered her life in obedient service which is true worship of God. In heaven, she leads the song of eternal praise which rises like incense before the throne of God.  Let us imitate Mary and ponder everything in our heart.