Sacred Art at St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church
On August 7, 1994, the inaugural Mass of St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Parish was celebrated under the guidance of Pastor Rev. John Vogt at Mountainside Middle School, located at East Via Linda and 128th Street in Scottsdale.
On July 2, 1995, Bishop Thomas O’Brien appointed Rev. Robert John Voss to lead St. Bernard’s as pastor. The first Mass was celebrated on Ash Wednesday in the new church on February 17, 1999. Because the Church is a visible building, it stands as a special sign of the pilgrim Church on earth and reflects the Church dwelling in heaven. When a church is erected as a building destined solely and permanently for assembling the people of God and for carrying out sacred functions, it is fitting that it be dedicated to God with a solemn rite, in accordance with the ancient custom of the Church.
The church was officially dedicated on March 21, 1999 by Bishop Thomas J. O’Brien.
The mosaic around the outside confessional doorway closely resembles the image of Our Lady of Grace (Madonna delle Grazie) associated with Padre Pio at Santa Maria delle Grazie in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy.
Installed February, 2025
Chapel of Grace Confessional: St. John Vianney “You have shown me the way to Ars, I will show you the way to heaven.” This artwork centers around the depiction of the Kingdom of Heaven. St. John V. is the patron saint of parish priests.
Installed February 2026
The Assumption of Mary. (Beside Altar)
Jesus holding St. Joseph, His adopted father, at his death. (Beside Altar)
These stained-glass windows were created by Botti Studio of Architectural Arts in Evanston, Illinois. The Joyful Mysteries surround the north wall of the church, and the Glorious Mysteries surround the south wall.
Above the main aisle of the church, surrounding the upper wall is a mosaic of the Memorare that St. Bernard of Clairvaux has been thought to have written. The Memorare is a popular Catholic prayer that is often used as a petition for the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary in times of need or difficulty. It is a powerful reminder of Mary’s role as a compassionate and loving mother, and her willingness to pray for us and help us in our spiritual journey.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession, was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To thee do 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.
The Nativity of Jesus Christ on the upper south wall of the church
The Last Supper on the upper north wall of the church
The Oratory/Adoration Chapel is a quiet place for individual time of prayer. The soothing waters of the fountain help to quiet the mind and focus on our Lord. Above the tabernacle is suspended a glass sculpture of the Holy Spirit descending.