Saint Bernard of Clairvaux on the Mother of God

The Vision of St Bernard, Pietro Perugino, 1493.

In danger, in distress, in uncertainty, think of Mary, call upon Mary. She never leaves your lips, she never departs from your heart; and so that you may obtain the help of her prayers, never forget the example of her life. If you follow her, you cannot falter; if you pray to her, you cannot despair; if you think of her, you cannot err. If she sustains you, you will not stumble; if she protects you, you have nothing to fear; if she guides you, you will never flag; if she is favourable to you, you will attain your goal... (Hom. II super Missus est, 17: PL 183, 70-71).

— St. Bernard of Clairvaux from his homily on the Incarnation of Christ.