Bernard of Clairvaux

Saint Bernard of Clairvaux was born in 1090 at Fontaine-lès-Dijon in Burgundy, France, to a noble family. Educated in literature and rhetoric, he felt drawn early to God, and after his mother’s death he entered the new monastery of Cîteaux in 1113, bringing with him a remarkable company of young men whose example stirred many others to religious life. Only a few years later he was sent to found Clairvaux Abbey, where his austere holiness, preaching, and wise leadership helped the Cistercian reform spread rapidly across Europe. Though deeply contemplative, Bernard was often called beyond the cloister as a counselor and diplomat for the Church. He defended Pope Innocent II during a painful schism, helped shape the ideals of Christian knighthood at the Council of Troyes in connection with the Knights Templar, and preached widely, including in support of the Second Crusade. Remembered as a mystic and master of prayer, he fostered tender devotion to Christ and to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Canonized in 1174 and later named a Doctor of the Church, he is honored as patron of places including Alcobaça. His feast day is August 20.