Saint Bernard’s Sermon on the Name of Mary
Published January 13th, 2021
St. Bernard of Clairvaux Homily Two in Praise of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 17
And the virgin’s name was Mary…
Let us say a few words about this name
which means ‘star of the sea’ and is so appropriate to
the Virgin Mother…
she it is
whose brightness
both twinkles in the highest heaven
and pierces the pit of hell
and is shed upon earth
warming our hearts far more than our bodies, fostering virtue
and cauterizing vice….
O you
whoever you are
who feel that in the tidal wave of this world you are nearer to being tossed about among the squalls and gales
than treading on dry land:
if you do not want to founder in the tempest
do not avert your eyes from the brightness of this star.
When the wind of temptation blows up within you
when you strike upon the rock of tribulation
gaze up at this star
call out to Mary
Whether you are being tossed about by the waves
of pride or ambition
or slander or jealousy
gaze up at this star
call out to Mary.
When rage or greed or fleshly desires are battering
the skiff of your soul
gaze up at Mary
When the immensity of your sins weighs you down
and you are bewildered by the loathsomeness
of your conscience
when the terrifying thought of judgment appalls you
and you begin to founder
in the gulf of sadness and despair
think of Mary.
In dangers
in hardships
in every doubt
think of Mary
call out to Mary
Keep her in your mouth
keep her in your heart
Follow the example of her life
and you will obtain the favor
of her prayer.
Following her
you will never go astray.
Asking her help
you will never despair.
Keeping her in your thoughts
you will never wander away.
With your hand in hers
you will never stumble.
With her protecting you
you will not be afraid.
With her leading you
you will never tire.
Her kindness
will see you through to the end.
Then you will know by your experience
how true it is that
the Virgin’s name was Mary.
Seek a Deeper Connection with God and Join Lay Cistercians of South Florida
Lay Cistercians of South Florida, is a community of lay people who seeks to have a deeper connection with God by living a life inspired by the monks and nuns through Lay Monasticism. Learn more about what is a Lay Cistercian on our website. Anyone who aspires to do the same as us, and is a confirmed Catholic is welcome to join us! We meet every second Saturday of the month at Emmanuel Catholic Church in Delray Beach, Florida.
This Content Has Been Reviewed For Accuracy
This content has undergone comprehensive fact-checking by our dedicated team of experts. Discover additional information about the rigorous editorial standards we adhere to on our website.
