Saint of the day August 20, 2025

St. Bernard of Clairvaux was a 12th century French monk and theologian, who was one of the most influential figures of his time. He was a key figure in the Cistercian Order and was a significant figure in the development of Western monasticism and spirituality.

St. Bernard was born into a noble French family in 1090 AD. At the age of 23, he left his home and joined the Cistercian Order, a newly-formed monastic order that emphasized a return to the simplicity of the early Christian monastic life. He became a monk at the Cistercian monastery of Cîteaux and quickly rose to prominence within the order.

In 1115 AD, Bernard was appointed to found a new monastery, Clairvaux, which quickly became one of the most important monastic centers of the Middle Ages. He became the abbot of the monastery and it had a strong influence on the development of Western monasticism and spirituality. Under his guidance, the monastery of Clairvaux grew rapidly, and he would go on to establish over sixty daughter-houses across Europe.

St. Bernard’s theology and preaching were also a central figure of his time. He became one of the most important thinkers of the 12th century, and his sermons were attended by thousands of people. He was a powerful advocate for the Church, and his writings and sermons were widely read and studied. He was also a strong advocate for the Second Crusade, preaching it to many European leaders and going on it himself.

St. Bernard’s theology was marked by his emphasis on the love of God and the importance of personal faith. He stressed the importance of humility and encouraged his followers to seek a deep personal relationship with God. His sermons and writings emphasized the importance of meditation and contemplation in the spiritual life, and he was one of the first to encourage the use of the Jesus Prayer, a simple prayer of the heart.

St. Bernard’s influence extended beyond the monastic world. He was also sought after by political leaders of his time, including kings and popes, for counsel and guidance on various matters. He was a powerful voice for the Church, and his writings, letters, and sermons had a major impact on the intellectual and spiritual life of the Middle Ages.

He died on August 20, 1153 AD. His tomb at Clairvaux quickly became a pilgrimage site, and he was canonized by Pope Alexander III in 1174. Today, his feast day is celebrated on August 20th by the Catholic Church and on August 21st by the Eastern Orthodox Church.

St. Bernard is remembered as one of the most important figures of the Middle Ages and is considered one of the greatest spiritual masters of the Western Church. His teachings and writings continue to be studied, and his influence in monasticism and spirituality is widely acknowledged. The Cistercian order that he helped to reform continues to thrive, and his rule is still followed by many monasteries and monks today.

Reflection

Bernard’s life in the Church was more active than we can imagine possible today. His efforts produced far-reaching results. But he knew that they would have availed little without the many hours of prayer and contemplation that brought him strength and heavenly direction. His life was characterized by a deep devotion to the Blessed Mother. His sermons and books about Mary are still the standard of Marian theology.

As we honor this great saint, reformer, theologian, mystic, unifier, and Doctor of the Church, let us ponder the effect that one man can have when his love of God reaches an immeasurable degree. His profound union with Christ and his burning desire to draw people to God should inspire us to exponentially increase our love of God, surrendering all to Him for His glory.