Today, the Church celebrates the Memorial of Saint Bernard of Clairveaux, a French abbot and a major leader in the reform of Benedictine monasticism.
Saint Bernard was born near Dijon (France) in 1090 AD. As a young boy, he was admittedly unruly, and this behaviour continued into his teen years, but having experienced a conversion of sorts, and recognizing his need to change, he chose (as a young adult) to join the Cistercian Order - a branch of the Benedictines that had only recently been founded. They were known for their austerity and Bernard thought that this discipline could tame his wayward ways. This recognition of conversion was not unlike the man who came to Jesus and said, 'Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?' (Mt 19:16), however like the young man in the gospel, all who recognize such need for conversion should also be prepared for surprises.
At the age of 22 years, Bernard entered the Cistercian Abbey of Cîteaux (south of Dijon), a place that was known for its strict observance of the Rule of Saint Benedict. Bernard's remarkable enthusiasm helped to persuade his uncle, his brothers and many friends to join him. In total, a group of 30 men entered the abbey along with Bernard. Three years later, Bernard was sent, along with 12 other companions, to a diocese in Champagne where, in a valley that came to be known as the Valley of Light (Clairveaux), Bernard founded the monastery where he would live as abbot for the rest of his life.
From the time he became abbot to the time of his death in 1153, Bernard dominated the religious and political life of Western Europe. His writings have had a lasting impact on Catholic spirituality and the abbey of Clairveaux became the motherhouse for dozens of Cistercian monasteries around the world.
Bernard died at the Clairveaux abbey on 20 August 1153 at the age of 63 years. He was canonized by Pope Alexander III on 18 January 1174. May he intercede for us so that we too might seek to follow in the footsteps of the Lord who calls us to be his disciples.
Have a great day.
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