Bernard of Menthon
Saint Bernard of Menthon was a Catholic priest and founder of the Great St Bernard Hospice and its associated Canons Regular. He is remembered for his missionary work in the mountain villages and for establishing hostels to aid travelers crossing the treacherous Alpine passes. His efforts led to the development of the famous St Bernard dogs and his canonization in 1681.
- Feast Day
- June 15
- Century
- 11th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Bernard was a Catholic priest and founder of the Great St Bernard Hospice and its associated Canons Regular.
- ›He worked as a missionary in mountain villages and preached the Gospel for 42 years, effecting numerous conversions.
- ›He founded hostels at the Great St Bernard Pass and the Little St Bernard Pass for the convenience and protection of travelers.
- ›The "St Bernards" dogs are attested from the 17th century and were later used by canons for rescue operations.
- ›Bernard was canonized in 1681 by Pope Innocent XI and confirmed as the patron saint of the Alps in 1923.
- ›Conflicting dates exist for his birth and death, with one source suggesting birth in 923 and death in 1008.
Bernard of Aosta, Saint Bernard of Montjoux
the Alps, Skiing, Snowboarding, Hiking, Backpacking, Mountaineering
Canons Regular of the Hospitaller Congregation of Great Saint Bernard
St Bernard Dog
About Bernard of Menthon
Saint Bernard of Menthon, also known as Bernard of Aosta or Saint Bernard of Montjoux, was a Catholic priest and archdeacon who lived primarily in the 11th century. He is widely recognized for his significant contributions to the safety and well-being of travelers in the treacherous Alpine regions.
Life and Ministry
Likely born in Italy, Bernard hailed from a noble family and received a thorough education. He dedicated his life to the service of the Church, becoming a priest and working as a missionary in the mountain villages. His learning and virtue led him to succeed his mentor, Peter, as the Archdeacon of Aosta, granting him significant administrative responsibilities within the diocese. For 42 years, Bernard preached the Gospel throughout the region and into parts of Lombardy, effecting numerous conversions and performing many miracles.
Founding the Hospices
Recognizing the extreme dangers faced by pilgrims and travelers crossing the Pennine Alps, particularly via the Great St Bernard Pass, Bernard took action. As archdeacon, he was charged with caring for the poor and travelers. To provide for their convenience and protection, he founded a canonry and hostel at the highest point of the Great St Bernard Pass, a location that now bears his name. He later established a second hostel on the Little St Bernard Pass. These institutions were placed under the patronage of Nicholas of Myra and were managed by communities of canons regular.
Legacy and Veneration
The hostels became renowned for their exceptional hospitality, offering food, clothing, and shelter to all who passed, especially during severe weather. The canons, often accompanied by their well-trained dogs—the ancestors of the St Bernard breed—would search for those succumbing to the elements. Bernard was venerated from the 11th century in northern Italy, and he was formally canonized by Pope Innocent XI in 1681. Pope Pius XI later confirmed him as the patron saint of the Alps in 1923. His patronage extends to various outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and mountaineering.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Saint Bernard of Menthon born?
While popular legend, later disputed, states he was born in the Château de Menthon near Annecy, it is likely he was born in Italy. He descended from a rich and noble family.
What is Saint Bernard of Menthon famous for?
He is famous for founding the Great St Bernard Hospice on the treacherous Great St Bernard Pass and its associated religious congregation. He also worked as a missionary in the mountain villages.
When did Saint Bernard of Menthon live?
Conflicting dates are given for his life. Alban Butler and the Catholic Encyclopedia suggest a birth year of 923 and a death year of 1008, though many traditional sources repeat these dates with variations.
What is Saint Bernard of Menthon the patron saint of?
He is the patron saint of the Alps, confirmed by Pope Pius XI in 1923. He is also considered the patron saint of skiing, snowboarding, hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering.
How did the St Bernard dogs become associated with him?
The St Bernard dogs, a breed of common herding dogs from Valais, are attested from the 17th century and were later accompanied by the canons from the hospice in search of victims succumbing to the weather.
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