Saint Robert of Newminster

St. Robert of Newminster: A Life Dedicated to Faith Feastday: 7 June Saint Robert lived in the 12th century, at a time of great change for the Church. Born in Yorkshire in northern England, his spiritual journey led him to study in Paris, where he distinguished himself for his dedication and intelligence. After completing his studies, Robert embarked on a path of growing religious commitment. He began as a secular priest, then embraced monastic life in the Benedictine order. Later, feeling the call to an even more austere life, he joined the Cistercian order. The culmination of his work was the foundation of Newminster Abbey, of which he became the first abbot. For the next twenty years, Robert devoted himself passionately to the creation of new monasteries in England, contributing significantly to the spread of the Cistercian order. Saint Robert was known for his great compassion towards the poor, embodying the Christian ideal of charity and service. His earthly life ended in 1159, leaving a legacy of faith and works that continues to inspire the faithful. In artistic representations, Saint Robert is typically depicted as a Cistercian abbot. His characteristic attributes are the pastoral staff, symbol of his abbey authority, a miniature model of a church, recalling his work as founder, and a book in his right hand, emblem of his wisdom and dedication to the study of the Holy Scriptures.