Saint Bernard, Abbot and Doctor of the Church

Bernard of Clairvaux was born in Burgundy in 1090 and entered the Cistercian monastery of Citeaux in 1112 with a group of relatives and friends. He soon founded Clairvaux Abbey, which became a major center of monastic reform. His age was marked by crusades, reform movements, theological debates, and growing devotion to the humanity of Christ.

Bernard was a preacher, spiritual writer, adviser to popes, and controversial public figure, including his role in preaching the Second Crusade. Yet his enduring legacy is his teaching on humility, love, the Song of Songs, and devotion to Mary. He died in 1153 and was declared a Doctor of the Church in 1830. His feast calls us to let theology become love.

Prayer: Saint Bernard, teach us to love Christ deeply, speak truth wisely, and seek holiness with humility. Amen.