Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, pray for us!

Today we celebrate the Memorial of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, who wrote of the great spiritual advantage of true devotion to our Blessed Mother.

Saint Bernard was an Abbot and Doctor of the Church. During his lifetime, he suffered with many anxieties and illnesses. He had a deep devotion to Mary and taught that we can turn to her in all our needs. Mary is our Mother. She understands us and she knows our sufferings and she invites us to be her trusting children.

The Memorare Prayer was written by Saint  Bernard. When we pray this prayer, with great faith, we gain confidence in Mary's powerful intercession, especially when we are in desperate need of God's help. This prayer reminds us that never was it known that anyone who fled to her, implored her help or sought her intercession was not aided. If we seek Mary's help, she will help us.

The Memorare
Remember, most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto you, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother, to you do 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. Amen.

He also wrote this beautiful prayer:

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.

Let us ask for Our Lady's intercession to Jesus. Her heart was pierced when she heard Simeon's words, as she held her precious baby. She did not understand, but she kept and pondered all things in her heart. Let us unite our sufferings with Jesus and turn to Mary for protection.

Holy Mary. Mother of God, listen to our prayers and save us from every danger. O glorious and Blessed Virgin Mary, help us to imitate you, to ponder everything in our hearts and turn to you in all our needs.