St. Stephen Harding

St. Stephen Harding was a 12th-century English monk and founder of the Cîteaux Abbey in France, which established the Carthusian order. He played a key role in revitalizing monastic life during the medieval period by promoting strict adherence to the Rule of Saint Benedict. Harding is remembered for his leadership, dedication to prayer and simplicity, and efforts to reform and strengthen monastic communities. His work contributed significantly to the growth of monasticism in Europe, emphasizing prayer, manual labor, and community living as central spiritual practices.