From Clairvaux to Our Community: Living Saint Bernard’s Legacy

08-17-2025Weekly ReflectionFr. Fred Adamson

Dear Parishioners,

As we continue our journey through the ordinary time of the Church calendar, we embrace this wonderful opportunity to reflect on the enriching teachings of Jesus that guide us toward a deeper connection with Him and the Father. This week’s Gospel shares an inspiring message where Jesus passionately declares, "I have come to set the world on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing!" This fire symbolizes the burning love of Christ ignited in our hearts through the gift of the Holy Spirit. Just like fire warms, purifies, and provides light, God's love is an incredible force in our lives, uplifting and transforming us.

On August 20th, we joyfully celebrate the feast day of our beloved patron, Saint Bernard of Clairvaux! Born into nobility in Eastern France in 1090, Bernard was a remarkable individual whose journey is truly inspiring. At the age of twenty-five, he embraced a monastic life and established the Cistercian Abbey of Clairvaux, which flourished and inspired the creation of numerous other monasteries. Today, his patronage lives on vibrantly within the Cistercian Order and here at our parish.

Let’s take a closer look at Saint Bernard and his fascinating journey! He was born just outside of Dijon, France, to parents Lord Fontaine, Tesclelin, and Aleth de Montbard – both respected nobles. As one of seven children in his family, Bernard was particularly gifted with intelligence, sensitivity, and wisdom, which shone through as he studied with local canons who dedicated their lives to prayer and education. Although he had the potential for a distinguished life as an aristocrat, Bernard felt a deep call to a life of spiritual simplicity.

With tremendous courage, he embarked on his monastic journey, joining thirty companions, including his brothers and uncles, in a monastery near the Forest of Cistels. Their devotion and camaraderie brought an incredible boost to the community, leading to the foundation of Clairvaux monastery just three years later, a venture enriched by family ties and shared faith.

The Cistercian community embodies a part of the Benedictine tradition, characterized by a unique structure that centers around prayer and work – the heartbeat of the community. These monasteries became vibrant centers of local life, offering support, safety, and spiritual growth. Clairvaux experienced remarkable growth, eventually inspiring the establishment of many other monasteries.

At Saint Bernard of Clairvaux Parish, we carry forward the beautiful spirit rooted in these Cistercian traditions. During my visits to the remnants of Clairvaux Abbey—once seized during the French Revolution and repurposed as a prison—and Saint Bernard’s second foundation, Fontenay Abbey, I was captivated by three powerful principles that thrive in the hearts of the monks and their devoted community: hospitality, order, and beauty.

Hospitality and fraternal charity were hallmarks of these monasteries. This same spirit of kindness and warmth flourishes within our parish community today. These sacred spaces became havens for those in need, and just as they extended Christ’s love, we, too, aspire to embody that same love and support for others around us.

Order was essential to their way of life. Living by the Rule of Saint Benedict, they embraced a commitment to simplicity and structure that brought harmony to their community. Our parish shares this Cistercian approach, as you can see in the beautiful architecture and design that invites us into a focused atmosphere of prayer and liturgy. When you step into the large central courtyard with its lovely arched porticos, it’s a gentle reminder of the serene abbeys of Clairvaux and Fontenay.

Beauty also played a significant role in their monastic life. Saint Bernard intentionally chose tranquil, wooded locations for their monasteries, inviting the community to continually recognize the presence of God in creation. Similarly, our parish, nestled at the foothills of the McDowell Mountains with stunning views of the city and beautifully landscaped surroundings, encourages all who enter to feel they are walking on holy ground. The beauty that envelops us not only draws us in but also lifts our spirits to experience the goodness and love of God.

With Saint Bernard of Clairvaux as our guiding patron and father in faith, we, as a united community, are dedicated to uphold the values of simple austerity, hospitality, order, and beauty. These principles continue to lead us closer to Jesus and His Church, fostering growth and connection among all who seek to deepen their faith.

Today, as a community of faith, we shine as a beacon on the hillside. Our hope is that everyone who visits us will experience the living Christ through our hospitality, harmonious order, and the beauty that surrounds us.

Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, pray for us …

In peace and hope,

Fr. Fred