"Even though there is no real need for me to write this for the brothers' spiritual progress--which must always be my first concern," reflected the conscientious young abbot of Clairvaux as he began his four homilies in praise of the Virgin Mary., ". . . as long as it in no way prevents me from being at their service, it seems to me they ought not to take it amiss if I satisfy my own devotion." To sing the praises of Mary, Bernard studies...