BLESSED BERNARD THE PENITENT

BLESSED BERNARD THE PENITENT - 19 APRIL

BLESSED BERNARD THE PENITENT

Bernard the Penitent (Bernardus Poenitens) - called the Penitent for the austerity of his life, which he led to the end - was born in Narbonnian Gaul of noble parents, but departed into exile for serious sins committed, and chiefly, as some say, for having taken part in a conspiracy against his sovereign.

He walked barefoot for seven years, wrapped in woolen clothing, and put on seven iron rings, one around his body, one around his neck, and the rest around his chest, loins, arms, and thighs; travelled three times to Jerusalem, and even further, to India, and through the whole of Christendom, until finally settling at St-Omer, where he continued to live his very strict life.

There he constantly attended church, and subjected himself to the strictest fasting. Although some of his iron rings loosened of their own accord, he persisted in his penitential severity against himself.

He bought a psaltery with the money he had begged, and taught himself to read. He worked many miracles and healed the sick even when he himself was on his deathbed. He died April 19, 1182.

(Information from Stadler's Complete Encyclopedia of Saints, Volume 1, Augsburg, 1858)

Stadler's Complete Encyclopedia of Saints - Sources and Abbreviations

PRAYER:

Grant, we beseech you, almighty God, that the venerable feast of the blessed Bernard may increase our devotion and promote our salvation. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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