Saint Aelred of Rievaulx

Biography

Saint Aelred of Rievaulx, also known as Aelred of Revesby or Aelredus, was born in 1110 in Hexham, England. He was the son of Eilaf, a priest who served during a time when English priests were allowed to marry. Eilaf was also the keeper of the shrine of Hexham. Aelred's early life was marked by spirituality, and he was known for his gentle nature and personal austerity. He became the master of the household of the court of King David of Scotland. Despite David's desire to make Aelred a bishop, he decided to leave Scotland in 1134 and join the Cistercian monastic order at Rievaulx in Yorkshire, England. Aelred's journey within the Cistercian order began as the master of novices at Rievaulx. In 1142, he became the first abbot of a Cistercian monastery in Revensby, Lincolnshire, England. His dedication to the Cistercian way of life and his leadership qualities led to his appointment as the abbot of Rievaulx in 1147. This position made him the superior of all Cistercians in England and required him to travel extensively, preaching and revitalizing the faith in both England and Scotland. Aelred was also known for his peacemaking abilities. He played a crucial role in resolving disputes and revitalizing faith in the Pictish region of Galway. Aelred's contributions to the spiritual and ascetic life were remarkable, and he composed sermons, prayers, and writings on various topics, including the lives of King David of Scotland, Saint Ninian, and Saint Edward the Confessor. Saint Aelred of Rievaulx was highly regarded by those who knew him during his lifetime, and he was considered a living saint. Despite never being formally canonized, devotion and cultus in his honor developed immediately after his death. His cultus was officially approved by the Cistercian general chapter in Cîteaux in 1476. Saint Aelred is often depicted in religious art as an abbot holding a book or a scroll, symbolizing his role as a scholar and writer. He is venerated as the patron saint against kidney disease and kidney stones. Saint Aelred of Rievaulx passed away on 12 January 1167 at Rievaulx Abbey in Yorkshire, England, due to kidney disease. He was buried in the Rievaulx Chapter House, and his relics were later translated to the abbey church and enshrined behind the high altar in 1191.