Saint Stephen Harding

Biography

Saint Stephen Harding, also known as Stephen of Citeaux, Esteban, Etienne, Stefano, or Stevan, was born around 1060 in Meriot, Sherborne, England. He hailed from the English nobility but had a somewhat mis-spent youth. However, he was eventually drawn to the religious life and entered the Benedictine Sherborne Abbey. Following the Norman conquest of England in 1066, Stephen left the monastic life and embarked on a journey that took him first to Scotland and then to Paris, France, where he pursued further studies. During this time, he felt deep remorse for his decision to abandon monasticism and sought forgiveness by making a pilgrimage to Rome, Italy. Upon returning from his pilgrimage, Stephen joined the community at Molesme Abbey, where he encountered Saint Robert of Molesme. Together, they were instrumental in initiating the Cistercian reform. In 1098, they founded Citeaux Abbey, which became the seminal Cistercian monastery. Recognizing Stephen's administrative skill and zeal for reform, he was chosen as the abbot of Citeaux in 1109. Under his leadership, the Cistercian Order experienced tremendous growth and expansion. He welcomed Saint Bernard of Clairvaux into the Order, who brought further reform ideas and a multitude of new followers. Stephen Harding was not only responsible for the establishment of Cistercian houses but also played a crucial role in the creation of the Cistercian nuns. He provided the statutes that laid the foundations for the order. His reform efforts extended to various aspects of monastic life, emphasizing simplicity in liturgical rites, church decor, monastic dress, and the overall lifestyle within the Order. Saint Stephen Harding was a committed reformer, tirelessly working to bring about spiritual renewal and adherence to the Rule of Saint Benedict. He dedicated his life to the pursuit of holiness and the betterment of the Cistercian Order. He passed away on 28 March 1134 at Citeaux Abbey in France, succumbing to natural causes. Stephen was buried within the grounds of the abbey. In recognition of his sanctity and contributions, he was canonized by Pope Urban VIII in 1623. Although Saint Stephen Harding does not have a specific patronage assigned to him, he remains a revered figure within the Catholic Church, particularly among the Cistercian communities. His feast day is commemorated on 28 March, although it was previously celebrated on 17 April, 16 July, and 26 January.