St. Bernard of Clairvaux: Abbot, Doctor of the Church, and Mellifluous Doctor
Feast Day: August 20
Born: 1090, Fontaine-lès-Dijon, Burgundy, France
Died: August 20, 1153, Clairvaux, France
Canonized: January 18, 1174, by Pope Alexander III
Patronage: Cistercians, beekeepers, candlemakers, and Gibraltar.
Early Life and Monastic Vocation
St. Bernard was born into a noble family in Burgundy, France. From a young age, he demonstrated a fervent devotion to God and an intense love for the Blessed Virgin Mary, which would shape his entire spiritual life. His early education was conducted under the care of the secular canons in Châtillon-sur-Seine, where he excelled in his studies, particularly in Latin and literature.
In 1112, at the age of 22, Bernard joined the newly established Cistercian Order at the monastery of Cîteaux, a reformed Benedictine order known for its rigorous asceticism and return to the original Benedictine rule. He was accompanied by thirty companions, including his five brothers and an uncle, showcasing his powerful influence and ability to inspire others toward a life of holiness.
Founding Clairvaux Abbey
Just three years after joining the Cistercians, Bernard was appointed abbot and sent to found a new monastery in the Vallée d’Absinthe, a remote and wild region. This new foundation, named Clairvaux (which means “Valley of Light”), would become one of the most influential monasteries in Christendom under Bernard’s leadership.
Clairvaux thrived under St. Bernard’s guidance, attracting numerous vocations and becoming a center of spiritual and intellectual life. His influence was so profound that many other monasteries were founded from Clairvaux, spreading the Cistercian reform throughout Europe.
The Mellifluous Doctor
St. Bernard earned the title “Doctor Mellifluus” (the Mellifluous Doctor) due to the sweetness and eloquence of his preaching and writings. His works include numerous sermons, letters, and treatises, which reflect his deep theological insight, love for Christ, and devotion to the Blessed Virgin. His most famous work, On Loving God (De Diligendo Deo), explores the nature of divine love and the reasons for loving God. Another significant work is his Sermons on the Song of Songs, a mystical exposition of the biblical text that reveals Bernard’s profound spiritual sensitivity.
Bernard was also known for his devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is evident in his many writings and sermons on the Mother of God. His Marian devotion is perhaps best captured in his famous prayer, the “Memorare,” which continues to be widely recited by the faithful.
Role in the Church and the Crusades
Beyond his monastic duties, St. Bernard played a crucial role in the broader Church. He was deeply involved in the political and ecclesiastical affairs of his time, acting as a mediator in disputes and offering counsel to popes and kings. His reputation for holiness and wisdom was such that he was often called upon to settle disputes and bring about peace.
One of Bernard’s most significant public roles was his involvement in promoting the Second Crusade (1147–1149). At the request of Pope Eugene III, a former disciple of Bernard’s, he preached passionately across Europe, urging Christians to take up the cross in defense of the Holy Land. His sermons stirred thousands to join the Crusade, although its ultimate failure deeply saddened him.
Theological Contributions and Legacy
St. Bernard’s theological contributions are profound and varied. He is known for his teachings on the love of God, humility, the mystical union with Christ, and his defense of the Church against heretical movements such as the Cathars. He also played a significant role in the development of Marian theology, emphasizing her role as Mediatrix and Advocate.
In 1830, Pope Pius VIII declared St. Bernard a Doctor of the Church, recognizing the enduring value of his teachings. His legacy continues in the Cistercian Order, which he reformed and expanded, and in the spiritual writings that have inspired countless Christians over the centuries.
Death and Canonization
St. Bernard died on August 20, 1153, at Clairvaux Abbey, after a life devoted to God and the Church. He was canonized just 21 years later by Pope Alexander III, a testament to his widespread veneration and the impact of his holiness. His feast day is celebrated on August 20, the day of his passing into eternal life.
Conclusion
St. Bernard of Clairvaux remains one of the most influential figures in medieval Christianity. His life of prayer, devotion, and service to the Church, coupled with his profound theological insights, solidified his place as one of the great Doctors of the Church. His teachings on love, humility, and Marian devotion continue to inspire the faithful and guide them on their spiritual journey.