Honoring St. Bernard of Clairvaux: Should Christians Celebrate His Legacy on August 20?

This image broke my heart this week to see someone I love bowing to a statue.

• I can only say, Lord Jesus, have mercy on me and keep me from idols.

• "Be it unto me according to Thy word," Mary said to the angel,

• As "the handmaid of the Lord," she would be horrified at this.

"Whatsoever He saith unto you do it." she told the servants at the wedding at Cana; That is wisdom we can honor every day.

Alonso Cano  (1601–1667)  Saint Bernard and the Virgin , Public Domain

August 20 marks the feast day of St. Bernard of Clairvaux (1091-1153), a notable figure in Christian history. Born in 1091 near Dijon, France, Bernard was not only a theologian but also a church leader and mystic.

An asterisk* after a name means that person is in my book SPIRITUAL LIVES.

His influence on the Church and his deep devotion to the Virgin Mary have substantially shaped Roman Catholic thought and practice. When considering his legacy, it is essential to assess both the positive and negative aspects of his life and teachings. Should Christians honor St. Bernard on this day?

The Life and Legacy of St. Bernard

St. Bernard founded the Cistercian order and played a key role in the Second Crusade, which took place from 1145 to 1149. His fiery preaching captivated thousands. It motivated many to join the crusade, resulting in an estimated 50% increase in volunteers eager to fight.

However, this fervor also led to severe consequences, particularly the persecution of Jewish communities in the Rhine Valley, where incidents of violence surged.

Bernard's response to these events was multifaceted. While he condemned the violent acts against Jews, he still encouraged their conversion, creating a complex narrative around his beliefs and actions. This duality invites critical reflection on how his passionate convictions translated into real-world impacts.

The Cistercian Abbey founded by St. Bernard of Clairvaux.

Bernard's theological contributions are particularly significant, especially his views on the Virgin Mary. While all Christians recognize and honor Mary as the mother of Jesus *(4BC-30AD), it was not until the 5th century that she began to be celebrated in special ways, with icons, images, and prayers.

Bernard championed the idea of Mary as a mediator and Co-Redemptrix, supporting these claims with a powerful phrase: she is the "aquaeduct of grace." His teachings have shaped Marian theology, influencing liturgical practices among Catholics for over eight centuries..

Before then, Catholics affirmed with other Christians the apostolic teaching of St. Paul* (5-67) : For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 1 Timothy 2:5

The New Testament affirms and explains this in Hebrews 9:15: And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.

The Hymn Misattribution

One of the most cherished hymns associated with St. Bernard is "Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee." This hymn has provided comfort and inspiration to many. However, recent studies indicate that it may not have originated with Bernard, raising questions about the historical accuracy of claims linking him to this widely revered piece.

While the hymn might not be directly connected to Bernard, its themes of love and grace resonate deeply with his teachings. This misattribution highlights the complexity that often surrounds a saint's legacy, emphasizing the importance of examining their contributions beyond simplistic associations with hymns or prayers.

This is especially important for examining prayers and hymns introduced after Constantine* (272-337) made Christianity the state religion. This meant the offices and practices of Rome were transferred into the Christian Church, including images, prayers to saints, and the office of Pontifex later Pope.

The prayer to Mary was first recorded in the writings of Savonarola (1452-1498). Following the Council of Trent, the final Hail Mary prayer was put into the breviary in 1568 by Pope St. Pius V.

More corruption has set in, as evidenced by the 19th-century idea of Mary's Immaculate Conception, which exempts her from original sin. 

Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox teachings also extend to the end of Mary's life, concluding with the Assumption of Mary, formally established as a dogma in 1950, and the Dormition of the Mother of God, respectively.

All of this has created a false gospel, funneling through Mary, now an idol in competition with her Son, who taught her and us:

I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father but through me.  

Mary knew this and would be horrified to see this statue being exalted and presented as another Gospel.

The Duality of St. Bernard's Influence

As we consider whether to honor St. Bernard, it is essential to acknowledge the dual nature of his impact. On one side, his profound devotion to Mary and insightful theological reflections have greatly enhanced Catholic spirituality. But Protestants see this as idolatry and a direct violation of the second commandment:

"Do not make for yourselves images of anything in heaven or on earth or in the water under the earth. 

Exo 20:5  Do not bow down to any idol or worship it, because I am the LORD your God and I tolerate no rivals. I bring punishment on those who hate me and on their descendants down to the third and fourth generation.

As a spokesman and leader of the church, his involvement in the Crusades and the accompanying violence against Jewish communities highlights a darker aspect of his legacy. Although he condemned the violence, his theological rhetoric helped shape narratives that justified such actions. Understanding this complexity prompts us to critically engage with history and realize that even revered figures can have troubling legacies.

The Importance of Context

When considering how to honor St. Bernard, we must take into account the historical and cultural context of his time. The medieval period was marked by intense religious fervor, political turmoil, and a profound desire for spiritual enlightenment. Evaluating Bernard's actions and teachings through this lens allows us to appreciate his contributions while also addressing the repercussions of his influence.

Statue of St. Bernard, a symbol of his enduring legacy.

Bernard's adoration of Mary has created a false gospel, funneling through Mary, now an idol in competition with her Son, who taught her and us:

I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father but through me.

Mary knew this and would be horrified to see this statue being exalted and presented as another Gospel.

Bernard will have to answer for this on Judgment Day. May God have mercy on his soul. As a Bible-believing Christian, I cannot honor this man who is dishonoring our Lord Jesus Christ and His Word.

The tranquil landscape surrounding the monastery founded by St. Bernard.

Search Me, O God,

Search me, O God,

And know my heart today;

Try me, O Savior,

Know my thoughts, I pray.

See if there be

Some wicked way in me;

Cleanse me from every sin

And set me free.

I praise Thee, Lord,

For cleansing me from sin;

Fulfill Thy Word,

And make me pure within.

Fill me with fire

Where once I burned with shame;

Grant my desire

To magnify Thy Name.

Lord, take my life,

And make it wholly Thine;

Fill my poor heart

With Thy great love divine.

Take all my will,

My passion, self and pride;

I now surrender, Lord

In me abide.

O Holy Ghost,

Revival comes from Thee;

Send a revival,

Start the work in me.

Thy Word declares

Thou wilt supply our need;

For blessings now,

O Lord, I humbly plead.

J. Edwin Orr, 1936.