Lauryn Dell
The Feast Day of St. Bernard of Montjoux on May 28th celebrates his life, dedication to travelers, and impact on the Alpine region.
St. Bernard of Montjoux, also known as St. Bernard of Menthon, is the patron saint of mountaineers, skiers, and the Alps.
His lasting legacy includes establishing hospices in the Great and Little St. Bernard Passes, offering refuge for centuries.
Explore the history, significance, and ways to celebrate this feast day, highlighting the enduring influence of St. Bernard of Montjoux.
History of Feast Day of St. Bernard of Montjoux
St. Bernard of Montjoux was born around 923 AD in Savoy, now part of France. He hailed from a noble family and received a thorough education, eventually feeling a calling to religious life.
In his early years, he showed a profound duty to serve others, especially those in dangerous situations.
At around age 30, Bernard established renowned hospices in the Great St. Bernard Pass and the Little St. Bernard Pass, treacherous routes through the Alps.
Establishing the hospices aimed to offer shelter, food, and medical care to travelers and pilgrims braving harsh mountain conditions.
His work revolutionized the era, significantly reducing deaths and hardships for those crossing the Alps.
St. Bernard’s dedication to his mission earned him great respect and admiration. He was recognized for his hospitality and missionary work in the Alpine regions.
His influence extended beyond providing physical aid; he was also a spiritual guide for many.
St. Bernard passed away around 1008 AD, but his legacy lived on. Pope Innocent XI canonized him in 1681, establishing his feast day on May 28th.
The monks at the Great St. Bernard Hospice bred the renowned St. Bernard dogs for search and rescue operations.
Important Facts
- Patron Saint: St. Bernard of Montjoux is the patron saint of mountaineers, skiers, the Alps, and travellers in mountainous regions.
- Hospices: The hospices he founded in the Great and Little St. Bernard Passes are still operational today, continuing to provide aid to travellers.
- St. Bernard Dogs: The St. Bernard breed, renowned for its rescue abilities in snowy conditions, bears his name.
- Canonization: St. Bernard was canonized in 1681 by Pope Innocent XI.
- Feast Day: His feast day is celebrated on May 28th each year.
Ways to Celebrate
Attend Mass
Attending a church service dedicated to St. Bernard of Montjoux honours his memory and legacy.
Explore the Alps
Visiting the Great St. Bernard Pass and hospice connects meaningfully with St. Bernard’s work. The region offers breathtaking views and a deep sense of history.
Learn About Alpine History
Spend the day reading about the history of the Alps and the role St. Bernard played in making travel through these mountains safer.
Charitable Acts
In the spirit of St. Bernard’s hospitality, engage in acts of charity, such as donating to shelters or volunteering at a local soup kitchen.
St. Bernard Dog Events
If you can access events involving St. Bernard dogs, such as rescue demonstrations or breed exhibitions, these can be a fun and educational celebration.
Hiking or Skiing
If you are a St. Bernard dog owner, it’s time to celebrate by engaging in outdoor activities like hiking or skiing and appreciating the natural beauty and challenges of mountainous terrains.
Family Activities
Share the story of St. Bernard with children through books or storytelling, emphasizing the values of hospitality and bravery.
Conclusion
The Feast Day of St. Bernard of Montjoux is not only a celebration of a saint but also an acknowledgement of the enduring human spirit and the compassion that can change lives.
St. Bernard’s contributions to the safety and well-being of travellers in the Alps remain a testament to his unwavering commitment to service.
FAQs about the Feast Day of St. Bernard of Montjoux
St. Bernard of Montjoux, also known as St. Bernard of Menthon, was a saint born around 923 AD in Savoy. He is best known for founding hospices in the Great and Little St. Bernard Passes in the Alps to aid travellers.
St. Bernard is considered the patron saint of mountaineers and skiers due to his significant contributions to the safety of travelers in the Alps. The hospices he founded provided crucial assistance to those traversing the dangerous mountain passes.
St. Bernard of Montjoux founded these hospices in the Alpine passes named after him. They provided shelter, food, and medical care to travellers, significantly reducing the dangers of crossing the Alps.
You can celebrate by attending a church service, visiting the Alps, engaging in charitable acts, learning about Alpine history, participating in outdoor activities like hiking or skiing, and attending events involving St. Bernard dogs.
The monks at the Great St. Bernard Hospice bred the St. Bernard dog breed, naming them after St. Bernard of Montjoux. These dogs exhibit exceptional abilities in search and rescue operations in snowy and mountainous conditions, embodying the saint’s mission of aiding travellers.
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