author
Saint of Clairvaux Bernard
1090–1153
A fiery monk, gifted preacher, and influential church leader, this medieval saint helped shape the Cistercian movement and became one of the best-known spiritual voices of the 12th century. His sermons and devotional writings kept his reputation alive long after his lifetime.
1 Audiobook
St. Bernard of Clairvaux's Life of St. Malachy of Armagh
by Saint of Clairvaux Bernard
About the author
Born in Burgundy in 1090, Bernard entered the new Cistercian monastery of Cîteaux as a young man and soon became one of the movement’s central figures. In 1115 he founded Clairvaux Abbey and served as its abbot, guiding a community that helped spread Cistercian reform across Europe.
Bernard was known not only for strict monastic ideals but also for unusual public influence. He advised popes and rulers, took part in major church disputes, and became famous for powerful preaching. His spiritual writing, especially his sermons and reflections on love, humility, and devotion, made him one of the most admired Christian authors of the Middle Ages.
He died on August 20, 1153. Later honored as a Doctor of the Church, Bernard of Clairvaux is remembered as both a contemplative and a man deeply involved in the struggles of his age.