As the day comes to a close, it is customary for us to offer a before going to . This practice has been a part of Christian tradition since time immemorial, serving as a way for us to ask for God’s protection and guidance as we rest for the night.
While there are countless ways to pray before going to sleep, one particular devotion that has gained great popularity among Catholics and other Christians is the practice of praying to Mary. As the Mother of God and our own mother in faith, Mary is seen as a powerful intercessor who can help us in times of need and bring us closer to her Son, Jesus Christ.
If you are looking for a way to deepen your prayer life and find comfort and peace before going to sleep, here is a simple prayer to Mary that you can use:
“Oh, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this my necessity. Oh, Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein that you are my Mother.
Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in this necessity. There are none that can withstand your power. Oh, show me herein that you are my Mother. Oh, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (Repeat three times).
Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands. (Repeat three times).”
This prayer is known as the “Memorare,” and it has been a beloved prayer to Mary for countless generations. In it, we ask for her assistance and intercession in our time of need, trusting in her love and maternal care for us.
Praying to Mary before going to sleep can bring a sense of peace and comfort, knowing that our Blessed Mother is watching over us and interceding for us. It can also be a way of deepening our spiritual relationship with Mary, who is a model of faith and discipleship for all Christians.
When we pray to Mary, we are not worshipping her as a deity, but rather honoring her as a beloved member of the Church family, who has a unique role in helping us to draw closer to her Son, Jesus Christ. She is a powerful advocate and intercessor, who can bring our intentions and needs to her Son in a way that is pure and holy.
In addition to praying the Memorare, there are countless other prayers and devotions to Mary that we can use before going to sleep. We can recite the Rosary or the Angelus, meditating on the mysteries of Christ’s life and Mary’s role in salvation history.
We can also pray to Mary using our own words, asking for her guidance, protection, and intercession in our lives. Whether we are facing trials and challenges, or simply seeking peace and rest for the night, Mary is always there for us, ready to offer her love and help.
In conclusion, praying to Mary before going to sleep is a powerful way of deepening our spiritual relationship with the Mother of God. By invoking her intercession and seeking her help, we can find peace and comfort in her maternal love, and draw closer to her Son, Jesus Christ. Let us always remember the important role that Mary plays in our spiritual lives, and ask for her help and guidance each and every day.