In his zeal to set an example for monastic reform, Bernard lived a life of such penance that his health suffered and his superiors had to persuade him to be more moderate.

In Photo: Christ embracing Saint Bernard, oil on canvas, by Francisco Ribalta. Bernard of Clairvaux, a contemplative activist, is one of the most powerful and influential figure of the High Middle ...

Although the knights were initially opposed by religious authorities, the Catholic Church officially endorsed them in 1129 and prominent abbot Bernard of Clairvaux supported them. Europeans began ...

St. Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153) was a monk and abbot, a Doctor of the Church, advisor to popes, preacher of the Second Crusade and was known for his devotion to the Blessed Mother.

This week the Church is preparing to celebrate the feast day of St. Bernard of Clairvaux, a Doctor of the Church thanks to his writings and sermons which greatly influenced Europe during the 12th ...

By 1118 Clairvaux was able to found its first daughter house—the first of some 70 Cistercian monasteries Bernard founded (which in turn founded another 100 monasteries in Bernard's lifetime).

Advocate staff photo by DANIEL ERATH -- St. Bernard de Clairvaux. The Rev. John Benedict McDonald, Susan Copping Advocate staff photo by DANIEL ERATH -- Jr Achievement City Stars.

Every year on Aug. 20, the Catholic Church honors St. Bernard of Clairvaux, the 12th-century monk who helped to build up the Cistercian order — some of whom are known today as the Trappists ...