Bernard of Clairvaux

Bernard of Clairvaux reformed and spread the Cistercian order across Europe and shaped the spirituality of his age. He is called the “honey-sweet doctor” (Doctor Mellifluus) for the warmth and beauty of his preaching.

His devotion centered on the Holy Name of Jesus — honey to taste, medicine to heal, music to hear — celebrated in the beloved hymn “Jesu dulcis memoria,” traditionally ascribed to him.

In On Loving God he asks why and how much God should be loved, and answers without hesitation: “The reason for loving God is God himself; and the measure of love due to him is love without measure.”