Saint Bernard of Clairvaux
(1090-1153)
Timeline of Venerable Solanus Casey
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux is honored as one of the great monastic leaders and theologians in the history of the Church. He was born to an aristocratic family—the third son in a family of seven children. He became a monk at age 21. Three years later he was appointed abbot in the new Cistercian monastery of Clairvaux, from which he got his name.
Bernard’s theological and devotional writings have become classics. He emphasized the affective and devotional aspects of Christian life. His first important writing took shape in 1126. It was inspired by the “Rule of Benedict” and contrasted humility and pride. Bernard saw humility as a necessary step toward God. The humble person keeps his eyes down and is not arrogant, speaks few and reasonable words, and is free of exaggeration. Humility leads to truth, life, and union with God.
Bernard also wrote about the four stages of love on the way to a more prefect love. First, there is the love of oneself for the sake of oneself. Second, there is the love of God for the rewards it brings, Third, is the love of God for God’s sake. And fourth, is the love of oneself only for God’s sake.
Bernard had a profound influence on Western monasticism. His reputation for scholarship and holiness was remarkable. He preached tirelessly against heresy. He was consulted by popes and monarchs. At the time of his death there were some 400 Cistercian monasteries in Europe. He was canonized in 1174 and declared a Doctor of the Church in 1830. Without doubt, Bernard’s true calling in life was to invite others to love God more deeply and more fully. It is unclear why Saint Bernard is the patron saint of candle makers, perhaps because candles reflect Christ as the Light of the World. His feast is celebrated on August 20.
World Timeline
1090
The first water-driven mechanical clock constructed I Peking.
1126
Venetian commercial privileges renewed in Byzantine Empire.
1153
The Golden Age of Buddhist art flourishes.
1174
Henry II does penance at Canterbury for murder of Thomas Becket.
1830: The religious society of Mormons founded by Joseph Smith.