Bernard of Clairvaux: Homilies in Praise of the Blessed Virgin Mary

"Even though there is no real need for me to write this for the brothers' spiritual progress—which must always be my first concern," reflected the conscientious young abbot of Clairvaux as he began his four homilies in praise of the Virgin Mary., ". . . as long as it in no way prevents me from being at their service, it seems to me they ought not to take it amiss if I satisfy my own devotion."

To sing the praises of Mary, Bernard studies and contemplates her there where God has so perfectly revealed her, in the Scriptures, taking as his text the passage from Luke, An Angel was sent to a virgin named Mary. In the company of the Church Fathers and with the help of the liturgy, he uses Holy Writ to provide both the content of what he says and the form in which he says it. Theologically the sermons are thoroughly traditional; in the beauty of their expression they are unparalleled.

The Cistercians have always had a special devotion to Our Lady, dedicating each abbey to her and closing each day with the beautiful hymn-antiphon Salve Regina.