St. Bernard of Clairvaux

Today is the day that we celebrate St. Bernard of Clairvaux (valley of Light). Thank you Saint Bernard for your inspiration, and extraordinary love for our Catholic Faith. His life was characterized by deep devotion to the Blessed Mother. His sermons and books about Mary are still the standard of Marian theology... in his words... "In dangers, in doubts, in difficulties, think of Mary, call upon Mary. Let not her name depart from your lips, never suffer it to leave your heart. And that you may more surely obtain the assistance of her prayer, neglect not to walk in her footsteps. With her for guide, you shall never go astray; while invoking her, you shall never lose heart; so long as she is in your mind, you are safe from deception; while she holds your hand, you cannot fall; under her protection you have othing to fear; if she walks before you, you shall not grow weary; if she shows you favor, you shall reach the goal" (St. Bernard)