Cistercian order
A Journey of Simplicity and Spirituality
Born in France in the heart of the Middle Ages, the Cistercian Order was founded in 1098 by Saints Robert, Alberic, and Stephen with a profound vision: to return to the pure essence of monastic life. Through their reform of the monastery of Cîteaux, they sought to live in faithful adherence to the Rule of Saint Benedict and the ideals of their time. This pursuit was marked by authentic poverty, simplicity, and a stripped-down liturgy. They valued manual labor as a means of sustenance, embracing the fundamental principles of monastic life.
Saint Bernard of Clervaux
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux: A Guiding Spiritual Force
Among the most emblematic figures of the order, Bernard of Clairvaux holds a special place. Welcomed into the monastery in 1112 by Stephen, he entered with thirty family members and companions, driven by a fervor that would leave a lasting mark on his era. A counselor to popes and kings, a founder of many monasteries, and a renowned preacher, his influence shaped religious history. His mystical writings, particularly his sublime sermons on the Song of Songs, continue to resonate through the centuries. Although he greatly contributed to the Cistercian Order’s expansion, he was not its founder but rather the inspirational force behind its growth.
Bernard of Clairvaux
The Reforms of the Cistercian Order: Tradition and Renewal
Throughout the centuries, the Cistercian Order underwent several significant reforms, demonstrating its commitment to preserving its essence while adapting to the needs of different eras. One of the most well-known transformations took place at the Abbey of La Trappe in the 17th century under the leadership of Abbot de Rancé. This reform emphasized an even more austere monastic life centered on prayer, giving rise to what we now call Trappist monks and nuns.
In the decades following the Second Vatican Council, another key phase of Cistercian renewal unfolded. Over 25 years, the order worked to revise its Constitutions to better reflect the spirit of the Council. This process allowed communities to reconnect with the spiritual and practical richness of their heritage while adopting a more flexible and open approach. This encouraged greater cultural diversity, enabling Cistercian traditions to flourish authentically in the many different regions where they had spread over time.
