What is the Cistercian Order in Catholicism?

Origins and Historical Development

The Cistercian Order traces its beginnings to the late 11th century. In 1098, a small group of Benedictine monks led by Robert of Molesme left the Abbey of Molesme to establish a new monastery in Cîteaux (Latin: “Cistercium”), near Dijon, France. The founding vision was to return to a more literal and austere observance of the Rule of Saint Benedict. This new monastery, originally known as “Novum Monasterium,” served as a model for the reform movement that became known as the Cistercians.

By the turn of the 12th century, under leaders such as Saint Alberic and Saint Stephen Harding, the Cistercian ideals of simplicity, poverty, prayer, and manual labor took shape. The foundational documents of the Order—often referred to as the “Exordia” (including the Exordium Parvum)—gave clear guidelines for communal living, worship structure, and a strict adherence to Benedictine principles.

Spiritual Emphases and Daily Life

Cistercian spirituality centers on personal and communal dedication to prayer, reflection, and service. Members traditionally devote themselves to the daily rhythm of the Liturgy of the Hours (also called the Divine Office)—times of structured prayer throughout the day and night. They also engage in lectio divina (sacred reading and meditation on Scripture).

The Rule of Saint Benedict, which the Cistercians follow in a stricter sense, calls for work and prayer as essential components of monastic life. In fulfillment of biblical principles such as “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) and “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being” (Colossians 3:23), the Cistercians embrace both communal worship and manual labor, living in simplicity so they can focus on devotion to God.

Influence of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux

Among the most famous of the Cistercians is Bernard of Clairvaux (1090–1153), who entered the Order at Cîteaux around 1112. He later founded and led the monastery of Clairvaux. Known for his theology, spiritual writings, and preaching, Bernard’s influence attracted many to the Order. His works, including sermons on the Song of Songs, contributed significantly to both medieval spirituality and the broader Christian tradition. Bernard’s emphasis on love for God and humility resonates with passages such as “God is love” (1 John 4:8).

Bernard’s extensive correspondence, devotional writings, and public engagements made his name synonymous with Cistercian ideals. He advocated holiness of life, simplicity, and unwavering devotion to Christ’s teachings, encouraging believers to “throw off everything that hinders” (cf. Hebrews 12:1) and pursue hearts wholly dedicated to God.

Expansion and Monastic Architecture

The Cistercian movement expanded rapidly across Europe during the 12th and 13th centuries, founding numerous “daughter houses.” The Order’s disciplined structure included a network of monasteries under the spiritual guidance of the founding Abbey at Cîteaux.

Cistercian abbeys became known for their distinctive architectural style—characterized by simplicity, absence of ornate decoration, and functional design elements that facilitated both communal worship and manual labor. These buildings often feature pointed arches and unembellished interiors, underscoring the Cistercian commitment to austerity. Archaeological studies of many former Cistercian sites throughout Europe have revealed a consistent pattern of construction aimed at supporting self-sufficient communities focused on prayer and work.

Organizational Structure and Governance

From an early stage, the Cistercians designed a system of visitation and mutual accountability among monasteries. The “Charter of Charity” (Carta Caritatis) outlined how the houses related to each other and to the founding Abbey at Cîteaux. Through this regulated structure, uniform standards of worship, discipline, and administration were upheld, ensuring adherence to the original Cistercian vision.

Leadership within each Cistercian monastery rests with an abbot, who oversees both spiritual and practical matters. The abbot’s guidance is a tangible illustration of the exhortation to “shepherd the flock of God among you” (1 Peter 5:2). The practice of mutual counsel and accountability flows from biblical examples of communal discernment and cooperation, such as in Acts 6:2–4.

Lifestyle of Austerity and Manual Labor

The hallmark of a Cistercian life has long been the combination of austere devotion and labor. Inspired by the apostolic call to hard work (2 Thessalonians 3:10) and stewardship of resources, Cistercian monks traditionally pursued agricultural and manual skills to support their communities. By focusing on essentials, they sought to exemplify passages like, “If we have food and clothing, we will be content with these” (1 Timothy 6:8). This emphasis on self-sufficiency highlighted the connection between practical labor and spiritual health, as both were opportunities for obedience and service.

Union and Distinction Within Catholic Monasticism

While clearly part of the broader Benedictine tradition, the Cistercian Order arose in response to perceived laxities in other monastic communities of its time. The early Cistercians sought to address issues of wealth and complacency by returning to the simplicity and prayerful dedication that some believed had been overshadowed by worldly concerns. Medieval chronicles, like the writings known collectively as the Ecclesiastical Histories, frequently reference the Cistercians as reformers who revitalized monastic and church life.

Over time, the Order experienced both spiritual revivals and challenges. Different congregations and offshoots emerged, such as the Trappists (a stricter branch officially called the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance), each reflecting the core Cistercian principles through varying degrees of emphasis on contemplation and austerity.

Contributions to Theology and Culture

Beyond their architectural and agricultural influence, Cistercians contributed to wider Christian debates and theological refinement during the Middle Ages. As medieval universities began to flourish, Cistercian writers and thinkers engaged in discussions on the nature of God, prayer, and Christian living. Their emphasis on Scripture—“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105)—guided both their internal formation and external teaching. Some of their spiritual writings, prayers, and hymns have shaped Christian liturgical practices to the present day.

Cistercian scriptoriums played a role in preserving and copying manuscripts, reflective of an overall monastic dedication to divine study and scholarship. While not primarily text critics, these communities often safeguarded important biblical and theological works, demonstrating the value of preserving God’s Word for future generations.

Modern Developments

In more recent history, the Cistercian Order has adapted to contemporary needs while retaining its central focus on prayer, community life, and adherence to the Rule of Saint Benedict. Monasteries exist around the world, serving as places of retreat, counsel, and spiritual direction for those seeking disciplined devotion.

Though the living conditions and manual activities in modern settings have changed due to technological advancements, Cistercian communities continue to stress humility, service, and dedication to prayer. They maintain schools, operate farms, produce artisan goods (like cheese and beer in some regions), and offer retreats for laypeople who desire a deeper connection with the biblical call to “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).

Scriptural Reflections on Monastic Vocation

While the term “Cistercian” does not appear in Scripture, the biblical ideals that underscore Cistercian life—self-denial, communal prayer, and service—have parallels throughout the New Testament. Jesus teaches a life focused on seeking the kingdom of God first (Matthew 6:33), and Paul encourages believers to dedicate themselves to prayer (Colossians 4:2). The Cistercian Order’s commitment to Scripture, humble service, and disciplined living reflects these foundational biblical instructions.

Their approach to communal living also resonates with the early church’s devotion “to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer” (Acts 2:42). Although expressed in a distinct monastic context, the underlying aim—to cultivate a life fully devoted to God—stays rooted in biblical principles recognized by many Christians throughout history.

Legacy and Enduring Significance

The Cistercian Order, established in 1098 and guided by Saint Robert of Molesme, Saint Alberic, Saint Stephen Harding, and, famously, Bernard of Clairvaux, represents a historically rich and spiritually significant movement within Christianity. Their dedication to the essential elements of prayer, work, simplicity, and biblical study has brought forth centuries of reflection on humility, obedience, and devotion to God’s Word.

The legacy of Cistercian monasticism continues in modern times through their global communities, theological writings, and spiritual witness. They stand as an enduring illustration for those seeking a life modeled on scriptural values, mindful of how earthly service and heavenly contemplation intersect “that in all things God may be glorified” (cf. 1 Peter 4:11).

Accordingly, the Cistercians have shaped Christian thought, culture, ecclesiastical reform, and devotional practice for centuries. Their history testifies to the power of returning ad fontes (to the sources)—both to Scripture and to the foundational monastic ideals of humility, labor, and prayer—as they strive to honor and serve God above all else.