Bernard of Clairvaux, considered by some to be the last of the church Fathers , is most notably known for his church reform through poverty and austerity. He encouraged reform of the entire church including the papacy. He was an astute scholar and a prolific writer. He had tremendous charisma that drew many people to follow him as evidence early in his life when he entered monastic life with 30 friends and relatives following behind. His influence extended far beyond the church to change even political and literary arenas of his time.
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