Feast of San Norberto

San Norberto, ora pro nobis

St. Norbert of Xanten (c. 1080 – June 6, 1134) was a German bishop, reformer, and founder of the Premonstratensian Order (also known as the Norbertines). Born into a noble family near Xanten in the Rhineland, Norbert initially led a worldly life at the imperial court, but a dramatic conversion experience during a thunderstorm led him to embrace a life of penance and reform.

In 1120, he founded a religious community at Prémontré in France, which combined the active priestly ministry with the discipline of monastic life. The Premonstratensians became known for preaching, pastoral work, and devotion to the Eucharist.

Later appointed Archbishop of Magdeburg in 1126, Norbert worked diligently to reform the clergy and defend the Church's rights. He was a key supporter of papal authority during the Investiture Controversy.

St. Norbert died in 1134 and was canonized in 1582. He is remembered as a zealous reformer and a champion of the Church’s spiritual and moral renewal. His feast day is celebrated on June 6th.

In celebration, we’re posting a prayer to St. Norbert. The accompanying photo comes courtesy of Father Eugene Carrella. The holy card is part of Father Carrella’s impressive collection of religious artifacts. Evviva San Norberto di Magdeburgo!

Prayer to St. Norbert of Magdeburg

O holy St Norbert, gentlest of saints, your love for Jesus Christ truly present in every tabernacle around the world and your charity for souls made you worthy while on earth to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited for your word, which you were always ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to intercede for me so that my prayers will be answered. The answer may require a miracle; even so, you are the saint of miracles. O gentle and loving St Norbert, whose heart was always full of zeal for souls, whisper my petition into the ears of the Infant Jesus, and the gratitude of my heart will always be yours.