Aibert

Aibert of Crespin

Aibert of Crespin, also known by the epithets Aibert of Tournai, was a Benedictine monastic and hermit who lived from 1060 to 1140. He is venerated for his life of intense prayer, asceticism, and deep devotion to Mary. His biography was composed by a contemporary, Robert, Archdeacon of Oostrevand.

Life and Historical Context

Aibert was born in 1060 in Espain, within the Diocese of Tournai, in what is now Belgium. His father, Aldbald of Espen, was a knight. Early in his life, Aibert embraced ascetic practices, fasting frequently and eating sparsely, particularly when working in the fields.

Influenced by a lament about Theobald of Provins, Aibert began a more rigorous ascetic life under the guidance of a hermit named John. They lived together in a single cell near Crespin Abbey, subsisting primarily on uncooked herbs and occasionally bread, deliberately avoiding foods of animal origin and cooked items. This period of shared hermitage set the stage for Aibert's lifelong commitment to spiritual discipline.

After accompanying his abbot on a pilgrimage to Rome, Aibert entered Crespin Abbey upon their return in 1090, becoming a Benedictine monk. He spent twenty-five years at the abbey, holding positions such as provost and cellarer. A significant aspect of his monastic life was his veneration of the Blessed Virgin Mary; he is reported to have recited 150 Hail Marys daily, performing genuflexions and prostrations as part of his devotion. The Hail Mary at that time consisted of "Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb."

In 1115, Aibert was granted permission to return to a solitary life as a hermit. He established a hermitage in the wilderness, where he was sought out by individuals seeking spiritual counsel and healing. Sometime after returning to his hermitage, Aibert was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Burchard of Cambrai. He is noted for celebrating two Masses each day, one for the living and one for the dead.

Death and Veneration

Aibert died in 1140 at the age of 80. His feast day is observed on April 7. He is chiefly remembered as a confessor and a model of monastic and eremitical life, embodying deep piety and devotion.