St. Bernard's Church - Saranac Lake, NY

About our patron, St. Bernard of Montjoux

When they hear the name “St. Bernard,” many people think of the massive rescue dog of the Alps. Our Patron Saint is the one from whom the dog takes its name!
 
St. Bernard of Montjoux (b. 923 - d. 1008) was the founder of three monasteries and hospices in the Alps -in locations now known as the “Great St. Bernard Pass” (8,000 feet above sea level), and “Little St. Bernard Mountain” (about 7,000 feet above sea level). The monastery and hospice/hostel were established to offer aid, comfort, and hospitality to French and German pilgrims traveling to Rome through the treacherous passes, often buried under 8 feet of snow. The Augustinian monks in charge of the hospices also trained dogs to assist in their work of rescuing pilgrims in distress.  This breed of massive rescue dogs was since named after the saint. The hospitality of the Augustinian Monks at the St. Bernard Pass can still be enjoyed by travelers today.

For obvious reasons, St. Bernard is venerated as a patron saint of mountain climbers, skiers, and travelers in the mountains. How fitting to have our parish - nestled in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains - placed under the patronage of St. Bernard of Montjoux!

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