Abbot Stephen Harding

Abbot Stephen Harding was a 12th-century monk and founder of Cîteaux Abbey, the original monastery of the Cistercian order. He played a key role in revitalizing monastic life in medieval Europe by emphasizing strict adherence to the Rule of Saint Benedict, manual labor, and simplicity. Harding contributed to the growth of the Cistercian movement, which focused on austerity, farming, and self-sufficiency, helping shape monastic reform during his time. His leadership and vision fostered a community dedicated to spiritual discipline and practical contributions to society, leaving a lasting impact on monastic practices and the development of the Cistercian tradition.