Monday, July 28, 2014

The Memorare

The Memorare is a traditional Catholic prayer dedicated to the Blessed Holy Mother. Originally composed as part of a longer prayer, the words were adapted into a separate devotion by the late 15th century. Father Claude Bernard (1588-1641), a French priest, was particularly devoted to this beautiful intercession to the Blessed Virgin. When struck down by serious illness, his prayers to the Holy Mother were quickly answered. He began to get well as soon as he prayed the Memorare.  He used this powerful prayer in his ministry with convicts and those condemned to death. Many prisoners were converted from a life of sin through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Mother Theresa used the Memorare in a quick novena. She would pray the devotion nine times in succession, imploring the Holy Mother's help.

The prayer is often attributed to St. Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153.)


 
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 with 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. Amen.
 
July Dedication:  The Precious Blood of Jesus
 
Lord Jesus Christ, who came down from Heaven to earth from the bosom of the Father, and did shed your Precious Blood for the remission of our sins: we humbly beseech You, that on the day of judgment we may deserve to hear, standing at Your right hand: "Come, ye blessed." Who lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen.
 
 
Dawn Pisturino
July 28, 2014
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