Bernard of Clairvaux (Latin: Bernardus Claraevallensis; 1090 – 20 August 1153), venerated as Saint Bernard, was a Burgundian abbot and a major leader in the revitalization of Benedictine monasticism through the nascent Cistercian Order. … Bernard was canonized just 21 years after his death by Pope Alexander III.
What is Saint Bernard of Clairvaux known for?
The French churchman St. Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153) was a Cistercian monk and founder and abbot of the monastery of Clairvaux. A theologian and Doctor of the Church, he dominated Europe through his eloquence and his counselling of popes and rulers.
Is St Bernard of Clairvaux a patron saint?
Bernard, the founding abbot of Clairvaux Abbey in Burgundy, was one of the most commanding Church leaders in the first half of the twelfth century as well as one of the greatest spiritual masters of all times and the most powerful propagator of the Cistercian reform.
What is the story of St Bernard?
It is said that the St Bernard is descended from dogs gifted to the monks by families from the cantons of Vaud and Valais. They were originally bred to guard and protect the hospice residents, thereby continuing on the good work of Bernard de Menthon to restore security to this mountainous region.
Where was Saint Bernard from?
Fontaine-lès-Dijon, France Bernard of Clairvaux/Place of birth
How did St Bernard of Clairvaux describe Christianity?
After writing a eulogy for the new military order of the Knights Templar, he would write about the fundamentals of Christian spiritual life, namely the contemplation and imitation of Christ, which he expressed in his sermons “The Steps of Humility” and “The Love of God.”
What does Clairvaux mean in English?
The Nuttall Encyclopedia Clairvaux. a village of France, on the Aube, where St. Bernard founded a Cistercian monastery in 1115, and where he lived and was buried; now used as a prison or reformatory.
What is St Bernard patron saint of?
His feast is celebrated on 28 May or June 15 (Roman Martyrology). Pope Pius XI confirmed Bernard as the patron saint of the Alps in 1923. His image appears in the flag of some detachments of the Tyrolean Alpine Guard. He is also the patron saint of skiing, snowboarding, hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering.