St. Bernard of Clairvaux's Life of St. Malachy of Armagh

Hugh Jackson Lawlor's translation of St. Bernard of Clairvaux's Life of St. Malachy of Armagh takes its reader on a comprehensive journey through the life of St. Malachy, Ireland's first canonized saint. The church in Ireland during Malachy's lifetime (11th century) needed"reform." Malachy brought renewed discipline to the polity of the Irish church. Liturgy and confessions were again raised in importance after being long neglected. Morality and strong marriages were also elevated as significant elements of Christian living. Malachy practiced what he preached. He was the original"Johnny Appleseed," as he planted apple trees throughout Ireland to stave off the effects of a famine. The poor and the oppressed were cared for rather than being ignored. This work also includes a detailed overview of the Irish church. Additionally, sermons and letters of St. Bernard are attached to this biography of Malachy.

Wailand Groenendyk
CCEL Staff Writer