Saint Bernard of Clairvaux

Think of Mary, call upon Mary

Homily II on the Missus est — the Star of the Sea

LatinEnglish

In perículis, in angústiis, in rebus dúbiis, Maríam cógita, Maríam ínvoca… Ipsam sequens non dévias, ipsam rogans non despéras, ipsam cógitans non erras.

In dangers, in straits, in doubts, think of Mary, call upon Mary… Following her, you do not stray; asking her, you do not despair; thinking of her, you do not go wrong.

— Saint Bernard, Homily II super Missus est

SourceSaint Bernard of Clairvaux · Homily II on the Missus est — the Star of the Sea

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The history of this prayer

In the second of his homilies on the Gospel of the Annunciation (“Missus est”), St Bernard of Clairvaux (1090–1153) explains the name of Mary as “Star of the Sea”. Whoever sails through this world amid storms must look to the star: “Respice stellam, voca Mariam” — “look to the star, call upon Mary”.

The Breviary read this sermon on the feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary (12 September). This page gives its best-known lines. St Bernard's feast is on 20 August.

Frequently asked questions

Where does “Respice stellam, voca Mariam” come from?

In St Bernard's second homily on the “Missus est”, that is, on Luke 1:26-38.

Why is Mary called Star of the Sea?

From an ancient reading of the name Mary as “stella maris”. As the star guides sailors, Mary guides those lost on the sea of this world.

Is this a prayer?

It is a passage from a homily, but it is meant to be repeated as counsel and plea in moments of temptation and doubt.

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