Fourth Sunday of Easter – Year C (2025)
Sunday, May 11, 2025
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux is a Doctor of the Church and a prominent figure in the 12th-century Church and society. The title “Doctor of the Church” is an honor given by the Church to certain religious writers who have greatly benefited the Church through their profound doctrine, exceptional theological and spiritual insight, high degree of sanctity, and life of courageous virtue. It signifies that their teachings are considered particularly insightful and valuable for understanding the faith. Bernard was born in Fontaines, France, in 1090 to a noble family. He developed a special devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, excelled in his studies, and engaged deeply with Sacred Scripture. At age 20, Bernard entered a monastery. Inspired by his decision to dedicate his life to religious service, thirty people, including five of his brothers, two of his uncles, and many friends, entered the monastery with Bernard. At age 25, he was sent to establish the monastery of Clairvaux, where he established his conception of monastic life and set it into practice. He also established several women’s monasteries. Pope Pius VIII bestowed the title of Doctor of the Church upon Bernard in 1830, and the Church celebrates his memorial on August 20. So, why write about St. Bernard today?
Firstly, this past Wednesday, the world’s attention turned to a strictly enclosed Sistine Chapel as approximately one hundred twenty Cardinals assembled to begin the process of electing a new Pope. When Bernardo Pignatelli, a pupil and spiritual son of St. Bernard, was elected Pope, taking Eugene III as his name, Bernard dedicated his famous five-part book, De Consideratione, to him. The book contains teachings on being a good Pope and addresses the balance between spiritual devotion and the practical demands of Church leadership. Of the book, Pope Benedict XVI said, “[It] is still appropriate reading for the Popes of all times.”
Secondly, in today’s first reading, we read the accounts of Paul and the apostles’ first missions as the Holy Spirit sent them to preach the Gospel. “Many Jews and worshipers who were converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who spoke to them and urged them to remain faithful to the grace of God. On the following sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord… and the word of the Lord continued to spread through the whole region” —Acts 13:43-44, 49. Just as a simple act of dedication by St. Bernard led many to dedicate their lives to the service of God, St. Paul and the apostles’ obedience to their calling led multitudes to become followers of Jesus.
We are called to be instruments of the Holy Spirit who inspired Bernard of Clairvaux, Paul, and the apostles, and is still at work today. Remember the miracle of the five loaves and two fish? The Holy Spirit can transform our humble gifts of love, compassion, and charity into abundant blessings for others. Do not be discouraged by the presence of injustice, pain, and suffering. Instead, offer your simple gifts, trusting that the Holy Spirit will magnify them, bringing hope and healing to those in need and giving glory to God.
Go in Peace to Love and Serve the Lord.