Saint Bernard

Date of Birth: 1090

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: August 20, 1153

Biography

Saint Bernard of Clairvaux was a French abbot and a primary builder of the reforming Cistercian order. Born into a noble family in Fontaines-lès-Dijon, Burgundy, in 1090, Bernard entered the Cistercian monastery of Cîteaux in 1112. His piety, eloquence, and leadership quickly became evident, leading to his founding of the Abbey of Clairvaux in 1115, which became a center of spiritual and intellectual life. Known for his deep devotion to the Virgin Mary, Bernard wrote extensively on her virtues and played a significant role in promoting the veneration of Mary within the Church. His theological writings, such as “On Loving God” and “Sermons on the Song of Songs,” remain influential in Christian spirituality. Bernard was also instrumental in the Second Crusade, preaching fervently to inspire European monarchs and knights to take up the cross and reclaim the Holy Land. Despite the eventual failure of the crusade, his reputation as a holy and devout leader remained untarnished. Canonized in 1174 and declared a Doctor of the Church in 1830, Bernard’s legacy continues to inspire Christians around the world.

5 Interesting Facts about Saint Bernard

1. Saint Bernard was instrumental in the foundation of 68 new monasteries across Europe.

2. He was a key figure in the promotion of the Cistercian order, which emphasized simplicity and austerity.

3. Bernard was known for his persuasive preaching, which rallied support for the Second Crusade.

4. He wrote the famous prayer, “Memorare,” a popular invocation to the Virgin Mary.

5. Bernard’s writings significantly influenced the development of medieval mysticism and Christian thought.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Saint Bernard

1. “What we love we shall grow to resemble.”

2. “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.”

3. “There are those who seek knowledge for the sake of knowledge; that is curiosity. There are those who seek knowledge to be known by others; that is vanity. There are those who seek knowledge in order to serve; that is Love.”

4. “Suffering is the way to glory.”

5. “In dangers, in doubts, in difficulties, think of Mary, call upon Mary.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As a saint and monk who took vows of poverty, Saint Bernard did not accumulate personal wealth. Instead, his “net worth” is considered in terms of his spiritual and intellectual contributions to the Church.