As we
celebrate Mary today, we recall these words of Saint Bernard of
Clairvaux, our twelfth-century Cistercian father.
Whoever you are who perceive yourself during this mortal existence to be drifting in treacherous waters at the mercy of the winds and the waves rather than walking on firm ground, turn your eyes not away from the splendor of this guiding star, unless you wish to be submerged by the storm!...Look at the star, call upon Mary...With her for a guide, you will never go astray...under her protection, you have nothing to fear; if she walks before you, you will not grow weary; if she shows you favor you will reach the goal.
Detail of the Abbey's copy of a Della Robbia Madonna in a photograph by Brother Brian. Lines from the Homily Super Missus Est, II, 17.