The Memorare (the Latin request to “remember”) is a prayer that has been attributed to St. Bernard of Clairvaux in the 12th century but almost certainly comes from a later period. It models a longer 15th century Latin prayer, Ad sanctitatis tuae pedes, which describes how the faithful present their prayers “at the feet of Our Lady,” confident in her loving attention to everything they ask. There is hardly a more beautiful Catholic prayer.

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine 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.