Saint Norbert, Saint of the day for June 6th

(c. 1080-6 June 1134)

The story of San Norberto

In the twelfth century in the French region of Premontre, Saint Norbert founded a religious order known as Praemonstratensians or Norbertines. Its foundation of the Order was a monumental task: to fight rampant heresies, in particular as regards the Blessed Sacrament, to revitalize many faithful who had become indifferent and dissolute, as well as to create peace and reconciliation between the enemies.

Norbert made no claims about his ability to perform this multiple task. Even with the help of a good number of men who joined his Order, he realized that nothing could be effectively done without the power of God. Finding this help especially in devotion to the Blessed Sacrament, he and his Norbertini praised God for success in converting heretics, reconciling numerous enemies and rebuilding faith in indifferent believers. Many of them lived in central homes during the week and served in parishes on weekends.

Reluctantly, Norbert became archbishop of Magdeburg in central Germany, a half pagan and half Christian territory. In this position he continued his work for the Church with zeal and courage until his death on June 6, 1134.

Reflection

A different world cannot be built by indifferent people. The same is true of the Church. The indifference of a large number of nominal faithful to ecclesiastical authority and essential doctrines of the faith weakens the testimony of the Church. The unstoppable loyalty to the Church and the fervent devotion to the Eucharist, as practiced by Norbert, will continue immeasurably to keep the people of God in accord with the heart of Christ.