St. Bernard of Clairvaux is a fitting patron for our parish. Born in 1090, Bernard renounced the worldly advantages of his noble birth and joined the Cistercian monks at Citeaux as a young man. His holy example, eloquent sermons, writings and intellectual pursuits attracted many novices to the monastery at Citeaux. In 1115, Bernard was appointed Abbot of the Monastery of Clairvaux and had a profound impact on the Cistercian Order of Monks.
Nothing is more just than to set up force against weakness and wisdom against ignorance.
St. Bernard is most noted for his reforms of monastic life. A man of vision who exemplified the grace of Christian living, he emphasized a balance between earthly labor and spiritual devotion. His lessons are well regarded by the parish which bears his name.