Mural Booklet

EXEMPLAR OF PEACE AND CONCORD
Both Bernard and Norbert worked hard for the reform of the Church
and religious life. Bernard of Clairvaux and the Cistercians were
revolutionizing the monastic world with a stern return to the
primitive Rule of Benedict, and Norbert of Xanten was leading a
movement to improve the lives of the parish clergy. With Bernard
concentrating on the monks and Norbert emphasizing the parish clergy,
the times witnessed a resurgence of the Christian spirit, which was
beneficial to the Church and world alike.
Bernard wrote of his time spent in Norbert’s company, “I was honored
in being permitted to drink in words from his mouth, as it were from
a sweet-toned flute.” Norbert also held Bernard in high esteem and the
life of the Cistercians had a great influence on Prémontré. As evidence
of his high regard for Norbert’s order, St. Bernard wrote to the Queen
of Jerusalem in 1142:
“It would be as unnecessary as
presumptuous, perhaps, for me to
say much in commendation of these
brethren of Prémontré, for they so
commend themselves by their own
merit that they have no need to be
commended by another. They will
be found, if I mistake not, to be
men of wisdom, fervent in spirit,
patient in tribulation, powerful in
word and work.
They have put on the whole armor of
God and have girded themselves with
the sword of the Spirit, which is the
Word of God, not against flesh and
blood, but against spiritual wickedness
in high places.”