I carry a Cross in my pocket
FATHER FRANCIS MAPLE
The Memorare
This popular prayer, a favorite of many Catholics, dates back to the 15th century and takes its name from the first Latin word of the prayer, "memorare," which means "remember." The Memorare is of unknown authorship, although it has been attributed to St. Augustine (354-430), St. John Chrysostom (c. 347-407) and, with more reason, to St. Bernard of Clairvaux (c. 1090-1153). St. Bernard's sermons on Mary were famous, and it was his Cistercian monks in the monastery of Citeaux in the 12th century who popularized the name "Our Lady" for Mary. The Memorare has also been attributed to the French cleric Claude Bernard (1588-1641), known as the "poor priest" of Paris, whose homilies contain passages that echo its words. No matter who wrote this prayer, it was Father Bernard who did much to popularize it, teaching it in hospitals and prisons, where Mary's intercession was effective in working miracles of grace. The first manuscript of the Mem
just looking at thie priest's face makes me feel that he is warm, wise, with a sense of humour, in other words a REAL shepherd
ReplyDeleteI've know Father Francis for many years, Melanie. He is, as you say, very warm, wise and with a great sense of humour. He sings in malls and shopping centres as well as in his concerts to raise money for charity; and over the years has raised more than £1m. He writes for a Catholic newspaper and other magazines. He is a missionary priest and spends a lot of time travelling throughout the UK giving missions in different parishes.
DeleteGod bless.
I can't stop smiling..you are very lucky to know him
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