Bernard of Menthon

Saint Bernard of Menthon was likely born in Italy in the early tenth century, to a noble family. Tradition places his birth near Annecy at the Château de Menthon, and tells how, after receiving a fine education in Paris, he chose the service of the Church over an advantageous marriage arranged by his father. Under the guidance of Peter, Archdeacon of Aosta, Bernard was ordained a priest and became a tireless missionary among the mountain villages, later succeeding his mentor as archdeacon and helping govern the diocese. For decades he preached the Gospel through the Alpine regions and into Lombardy, winning many conversions and being remembered for miracles and peacemaking. His enduring work was charity: seeing pilgrims and travelers imperiled by snow and avalanches on the Alpine passes, he founded hospices on the Great and Little Saint Bernard Passes, entrusting them to canons regular under the patronage of Saint Nicholas, protector of travelers. Bernard died in 1008 at Novara. He is venerated as patron of the Alps and of those who journey through the mountains. His feast day is June 15.