DOM PAUL MARK SCHWAN, OCSO
What elements make up a Cistercian devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary (BVM)? As a member of the Order of the Cistercians of the Strict Observance, I propose that first it is necessary to look at our Constitutions to see what is said about the BVM and then comment upon their relevance in forming a Cistercian devotion to Mary.
In our Constitutions, there are found four references to the BVM. In Constitution 3, The Spirit of the Order, in section 4, it states, “Each community of the Order and all the monks are dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother and Symbol of the Church in the order of faith, love and perfect union with Christ.” Here in this basic statement is the basis of our devotion as Cistercians to Mary, Mother of God. The historical origin of this constitution is found in the earliest constitutions. Furthermore, this Constitution 3 reflects the theological insights that Vatican II provided for an authentic devotion to Mary.
The second reference to the BVM is found in Constitution 22, Heartfelt Prayer; it states, “May the Blessed Virgin Mary who was taken up into heaven, the life and sweetness and hope of all earthly pilgrims never be far from their hearts.” This reference to Mary’s Assumption alludes to the patronal feast of the Cistercian Order. The role of the Assumption thus figures prominently in our understanding of ourselves both as Cistercians and how the mystery of the Assumption helps to form our prayer. This theme will be developed more thoroughly below.
Thirdly, in Constitution 45, The Process of Formation, the role of Mary in the formative process of the monk is expressed by the following: “Aided by the maternal care of the Mother of God, the brothers so advance in the monastic way of life that they progressively attain the full measure of the stature of Christ.”
Finally, the fourth reference to Mary is found in Constitution 86, the very last constitution, In the Joy of the Holy Spirit. “May God grant that by the breath of the Paraclete the brothers may observe them (i.e., the Constitutions and Statutes) in a spirit of fraternal charity and fidelity to the Church, and so joyfully make their way to the fullness of love with the help of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Queen of Citeaux.”
What do these four Constitutions tell us and, more importantly, how do they form us in a living, animated, heartfelt devotion to Mary as Cistercians?
