‘Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help’ – 11 Top Tips to This Inspiring Prayer that Will Reignite Your Devotion

Discover the history and blessings of the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help. This post about the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help explores the origins, meaning, and power behind this beloved Catholic prayer asking for the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Learn when and how this prayer took root in the Church, as well as how praying this prayer can deepen your devotion to Our Mother of Perpetual Help and draw you closer to Christ. Through her title and role as the Mother of Perpetual Help, Mary ceaselessly bestows grace and comfort to those who turn to her.

Reflecting on the words and messages of the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help provides insights into a Treasure of faith that has aided and inspired Christians for generations.

What is the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help?

The Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help is a beloved supplication to the Virgin Mary, asking for her intercession and protection under her title of “Mother of Perpetual Help.”

It begins like this:

 “O Mother of Perpetual Help, grant that I may ever invoke thy most powerful name, which is the safeguard of the living and the salvation of the dying.”

The prayer continues by acknowledging Mary as Mother of the Savior, Mother of the sorrowful, and Mother of the poor and troubled. It asks for her merciful gaze to look upon our needs and intercede for us to her Son.

This prayer recognizes the Blessed Mother’s role as a loving comforter and helper who can present our petitions to Jesus, obtaining His graces and mercies for us.

What are the words to the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help?

The full words of the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help are:

> O Mother of Perpetual Help,
grant that I may ever invoke thy most powerful name, which is the safeguard of the living and the salvation of the dying. O Purest Mary, O Sweetest Mary; let thy name henceforth be ever on my lips. Delay not, O Blessed Lady, to help me whenever I call on thee; for, in all my temptations, in all my needs, I shall never cease to call on thee, ever repeating thy sacred name, Mary, Mary.

> O what consolation, what sweetness, what confidence, what emotion, fill my soul when I utter thy sacred name, or even only think of thee. I thank the Lord for having given thee, for my good, so sweet, so powerful, so lovely a name. But I will not be content with merely uttering thy name. Let my love for thee prompt me ever to hail thee Mother of Perpetual Help.

O Mother of Perpetual Help, thou art the dispenser of every grace that God grants us in our misery; it is for this cause that He hath made thee so powerful, so rich, so kind, that thou mightest assist us in our miseries. Thou art the advocate of the most wretched and abandoned sinners, if they but come unto thee; come once more to my assistance, for I commend myself to thee.

In thy hands I place my eternal salvation; to thee I entrust my soul. Count me among thy most devoted servants; take me under thy protection and it is enough for me.

For, if thou protect me, dear Mother, I fear nothing; not from my sins, because thou wilt obtain for me their pardon and remission; nor from the devils, because thou art more powerful than all hell together; nor even from Jesus, my Judge, because by one prayer from thee, He will be appeased.

But one thing I fear, that in the hour of temptation, I may through negligence fail to have recourse to thee and thus perish miserably.

> Obtain for me, therefore, the pardon of my sins, love for Jesus, final perseverance, and the grace to have recourse to thee, O Mother of Perpetual Help.

O Mother of Perpetual Help, thou art the dispenser of every grace that God grants us in our misery; it is for this cause that He hath made thee so powerful, so rich, so kind, that thou mightest assist us in our miseries. Thou art the advocate of the most wretched and abandoned sinners, if they but come unto thee; come once more to my assistance, for I commend myself to thee. In thy hands I place my eternal salvation; to thee I entrust my soul.

Count me among thy most devoted servants; take me under thy protection and it is enough for me. For, if thou protect me, dear Mother, I fear nothing; not from my sins, because thou wilt obtain for me their pardon and remission; nor from the devils, because thou art more powerful than all hell together; nor even from Jesus, my Judge, because by one prayer from thee, He will be appeased. But one thing I fear, that in the hour of temptation, I may through negligence fail to have recourse to thee and thus perish miserably.

Obtain for me, therefore, the pardon of my sins, love for Jesus, final perseverance, and the grace to have recourse to thee, O Mother of Perpetual Help.

What is the origin and meaning of the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help?

The Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help is believed to have originated in the 13th century, when a picture of Mary and the child Jesus was brought from Crete to Rome. This sacred image, depicting Mary tenderly holding the infant Jesus, came to be known as the Icon of Our Mother of Perpetual Help and her Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help came from this.

For centuries, the icon was venerated by the faithful who recognized Mary’s loving concern and readiness to intercede for all who turned to her. Around 1790, Pope Pius VI encouraged public devotion to the Mother of Perpetual Help especially when people pray the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help, and the Redemptorists were commissioned to spread this devotion. The image was placed for veneration in the Church of St. Alphonsus Liguori, founder of the Redemptorists.

Since then, recitation of the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help has become a cherished Catholic devotion, reminding us of Mary’s unceasing maternal care and intercession. The title “Mother of Perpetual Help” reflects her ongoing willingness to come to our aid, at every moment and in every need. As a perpetual font of God’s grace and mercy, she is always ready to help us.

When do Catholics traditionally pray the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help?

Traditionally, Catholics pray the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help on Wednesdays, which are dedicated to Mary under this title of her loving concern for all humanity. The prayer is often said following Mass, or during times set aside specifically for this devotion.

The Perpetual Help novena prayers take place over nine consecutive Wednesdays. Each Wednesday service includes hymns, readings, and recitation of the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help. This allows the faithful to reflect more deeply on Mary’s role as our merciful helper who joins her prayers to ours.

Some also pray this prayer daily, or habitually turn to it in times of special need. Mary’s title of “Perpetual Help” reminds us we can rely on her intercession continuously, without ceasing. The prayer invites us to call on her always, through both joys and sorrows.

How did the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help become so popular?

Several factors contributed to the widespread popularity of the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help over the centuries:

– The prayer originated with the beloved icon depicting Mary tenderly holding the infant Jesus. This image visually reinforces her motherly care and perpetual help, which drew people to pray for her intercession.

– The Redemptorists were instrumental in spreading devotion to the Mother of Perpetual Help. Their preaching and promotion of the icon brought prayerful veneration to diverse communities.

– The prayer captures Mary’s approachability as both Mother of Jesus and spiritual mother to all. Its words reflect the intimacy of a child pleading for the comfort of its mother.

– The concise, direct nature of the prayer makes it easy to memorize and recite regularly, helping devotion take root through constant prayer.

– Mary’s unceasing willingness to intercede as an advocate resonates with those seeking heavenly aid in the trials of life. Her perpetual help brings hope.

– The historic connection to the sacred icon provides a visual focus enabling deeper meditation on the loving concern of Our Mother of Perpetual Help.

Through these means, devotion to the Mother of Perpetual Help has blossomed for over two centuries and continues flourishing today. The humble sincerity and filial confidence of this prayer stir hearts to trust in Mary’s helping hand, outstretched to all her children.

What are some key messages in the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help?

Some of the central themes that emerge in the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help include:

– **Mary’s powerful intercession:** She is our refuge, whose prayers have great influence with God. Her name is “the safeguard of the living and the salvation of the dying.”

– **Mary’s approachability:** She is close to us, waiting for us to call on her aid. We need only ask for her help, and she rushes to our side.

– **Mary’s merciful tenderness:** She looks kindly on us in our troubles, and her Immaculate Heart overflows with compassion. We are her beloved children.

– **Confidence in Mary’s help:** Calling on her name instills peace, consolation, and courage to face life’s trials. She will never fail to come to our assistance.

– **Gratitude for Mary’s love:** She selflessly pours out grace and mercy, never tiring of helping us. We thank God for giving us Mary as such a loving Mother and Helper.

– **Persistence in praying for Mary’s aid:** We must develop the habit of praying often to Our Mother of Perpetual Help, in all things trusting her watchful intercession.

This beloved prayer beautifully expresses childlike trust in our Blessed Mother. Turning to her opens our hearts to God’s grace.

What are some examples of miracles attributed to the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help?

Throughout history, there have been many miracles associated with devotion to Our Mother of Perpetual Help, especially through prayer directed to her holy icon. Here are just a few:

– In the 1870s, a child in Boston recovered suddenly from severe chronic asthma after the icon was venerated in his home.

– A nun in Germany with advanced tuberculosis was completely cured in 1878 after prayers to Our Lady of Perpetual Help.

– In 1962, a terminally ill woman rose from her sickbed after dedicating herself to the daily recitation of the Memorare to Our Mother of Perpetual Help.

– A newborn premature baby on the brink of death was revived after a nurse placed an image of Our Mother of Perpetual Help over his incubator.

– In 1995, a young girl paralyzed in a car accident regained the ability to walk after her family and parish prayed novenas asking Our Mother of Perpetual Help for her cure.

These extraordinary events reflect the loving power of Mary’s intercession. But her daily assistance also flows in countless quiet ways into the lives of those who rely on her as their Mother of Perpetual Help.

How can I make a pilgrimage to honor Our Mother of Perpetual Help?

Making a pilgrimage is a meaningful way to deepen your devotion to Our Mother of Perpetual Help. Here are some tips if you would like to make a pilgrimage in her honor:

– The most renowned pilgrimage site is the Church of St. Alphonsus Liguori in Rome, where the original icon of Our Mother of Perpetual Help is kept. Arrange to attend Mass and pray before the revered icon.

– Redemptorist churches often have replicas of the icon, establishing them as pilgrimage sites. Visit one on a Wednesday dedicated to Our Mother of Perpetual Help.

– Journey to Marian shrines like Lourdes, Fatima, or Guadalupe, praying the Memorare to Our Mother of Perpetual Help along the way.

– Travel with other devoted pilgrims. Share your reflections on Mary’s perpetual help. Pray the novena together with deeper understanding.

– During your pilgrimage, perform works of mercy and charity in Mary’s name. For example, serve in a soup kitchen or volunteer at a shelter.

– Keep a journal during your journey to record spiritual insights, answered prayers through Mary’s intercession, and experiences of her maternal closeness.

– Share stories of your pilgrimage with others, inspiring them also to grow closer to Our Mother of Perpetual Help through a spirit-filled journey of devotion.

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What other saints are located near the pilgrimage site of Our Mother of Perpetual Help?

The Church of St. Alphonsus Liguori in Rome, home of the revered icon of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, is situated near several sites associated with other beloved saints. Pilgrims can enrich their journey by also visiting these holy places:

– The Basilica of St. John Lateran, the Pope’s cathedral, which contains relics of both Peter and Paul.

– St. Mary Major Basilica, a magnificent church dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

– St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican, built over the tomb of St. Peter, with treasures like Michelangelo’s _Pieta_.

– St. Paul Outside the Walls, the site of St. Paul’s tomb and a stunning basilica.

– Santa Croce Basilica, housing relics of Christ’s Passion.

– St. Peter in Chains, which contains Michelangelo’s statue of Moses along with the chains that bound St. Peter.

– The Basilica of St. Clement, with underground excavations of early Christian history.

Being in the proximity of these holy places whilst on pilgrimage magnifies the graces received. Their sacred beauty moves us to prayer, deepening devotion.

Where can I find the full text of the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help?

The complete Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help can be found in many Catholic prayer books, on the websites of Marian shrines like the National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, and in the pamphlets handed out during Perpetual Help novena services.

Some excellent resources for the full text of the prayer are:

– _Manual of the Pious Union of St. Alphonsus Liguori_ – This book from the Redemptorists has the origins of the prayer along with the text.

– _Catholic Household Blessings and Prayers_ – This book by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops includes the words.

– EWTN’s website (www.ewtn.com) offers the prayer text on its Prayers page.

– The _Magnificat_ monthly prayer book commonly publishes the prayer during months dedicated to Mary.

Having a copy of the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help enables you to pray it regularly. Its words of loving devotion to Mary will become a treasure etched on your heart.

How can praying the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help bring me closer to sainthood?

Praying to Our Mother of Perpetual Help aids our journey of sanctification to sainthood by:

– Reminding us of Mary’s sinless example of profound love for God and others. As our Mother, she gently guides us in the ways of holiness.

– Drawing us nearer to Jesus, in whose image we are all called to be transformed. Mary always leads people to a closer relationship with her Divine Son.

– Helping us open our hearts to God’s grace, which is His loving life within us. Through Mary’s intercession, we become more receptive to the Holy Spirit.

– Inspiring us to practice mercy, charity, and forgiveness. As our model of Christian virtue, Mary assists us in living the beatitudes.

– Encouraging perseverance in faith amidst suffering and struggle. Mary understands the difficulties of the spiritual journey and aids endurance.

– Kindling continual prayer in us. Following Mary’s example of “praying without ceasing” keeps us centered on Christ.

– Urging us to surrender to God’s will in all things. As Mary’s children, we learn from her to entrust everything completely to Jesus.

By the working of these graces, devotion to Our Mother of Perpetual Help helps transform us into saints. With her maternal care guiding our steps, we walk ever more closely with Christ each day.

Are You Inspired?

Did the lessons on Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help today make you feel motivated or inspired in any way? Biographies of saints make for interesting reading and conversation. It’s highly likely to bear spiritual fruit in our life.

Would you desire a quick way to talk about the saints with your family and friends? Why don’t you purchase one of these wonderful Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help shirts I made just for you? When people ask you about the meaning of your clothing in this way, you can then tell them about the Prayer for Our Mother of Perpetual Help.

They could even consent to go to church with you. Even better, you might be able to introduce them to the Gospel. Romans 3:23 says that everyone has sinned and is short of the glory of God. Therefore, everyone needs a Savior.

God made provision for us to become His children by sending His one and only son to fulfill the criteria of the law. Rom. 4:15–16

Jesus had to come to Earth, live a blameless life, and die in order to offer the ultimate atonement for our sins. The Bible says it like this…

“Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.”

– Hebrews 9:22

The story did not finish with Jesus’ crucifixion and death, though. No, he regained his life! He promises to bring us back to life once we die because He is alive. For all time, he defeated sin and death. Hallelujah!

After imparting this vital information to your loved ones, friends, and acquaintances, invite them to attend RCIA at the local Catholic church.

Through the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, or RCIA, family members, friends, and acquaintances can join the Catholic Church and qualify to receive the Holy Sacraments. Students can learn everything they need to know about our glorious Christian religion and our Compassionate Jesus by participating in RCIA sessions given by their parish.

This is the genuine method of saving a life. I’m wishing for you in this.

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You can find a list of additional well-known saints on our website by clicking HERE.