Who was Saint
Bernard of Clairvaux?
Saint Bernard is
considered the second founder of the Cistercians. He and companions joined the
order when they were young men. Eventually, Bernard founded
the
Abbey of
Clairvaux and was appointed
Abbot. He
became the “man of the 12 century” due to the many monasteries he built, and his
position as advisor to the pope and other powerful persons, his numerous
writings and his preaching. He was
one of the most
powerful influences in Europe for his time.
A collection of his letters, numbering at least 500,
were written for Pope Eugene. Bernard’s reflections on Scripture, and his deep
devotion to Mary and the Infant Jesus had a profound effect on Catholic
spirituality. He was canonized in 1174, declared a Doctor of the Church in 1830,
and is considered the last of the Fathers of the Church.
The text two of his prayers, well known to modern
Catholics are found on this web page.
St Bernard's Words About Our Lady
In dangers, in doubts, in
difficulties, think of Mary, call upon Mary. Let not her name depart from your
lips, never suffer it to leave your heart. And that you may more surely obtain
the assistance of her prayer, neglect not to walk in her footsteps. With her for
guide, you shall never go astray; while invoking her, you shall never lose
heart; so long as she is in your mind, you are safe from deception; while she
holds your hand, you cannot fall; under her protection you have nothing to fear.
~St. Bernard
|
Prayers
of St Bernard
O
SACRED HEAD
By St. Bernard Of Clairvaux
O
Sacred Head surrounded by crown of piercing thorn! O bleeding Head, so wounded,
reviled and put to scorn! Death's pallid hue comes o'er Thee, the glow of life
decays,
Yet angel hosts adore Thee and tremble as they gaze.
I
see Thy strength and vigor all fading in the strife, And death, with cruel
vigor, bereaving Thee of life; O agony and dying! O love to sinners free! Jesus,
all grace supplying, O turn Thy face on me!
In this Thy bitter Passion, Good Shepherd, think. of me, With Thy most sweet
compassion, unworthy though I be; Beneath Thy Cross abiding, forever would I
rest, In Thy dear love confiding, and wilth Thy presence blest.
The
Memorare
By St. Bernard Of Clairvaux
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that any one who
fled to thy protection, implored thy help, and sought thy intercession, was left
unaided.
Inspired with this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother,
to thee I come, before thee I stand sinful and sorrowful.
O
Mother of the Word Incarnate! despise not my petitions, but, in thy mercy, hear
and answer me. Amen.
|