Robert of Molesme
Cistercian abbot (1024–1111)
Feast: 30 April (not on the universal Roman calendar; kept in the Roman Martyrology or local calendars)
Who they were
Robert, of noble family in Champagne, became a monk at fifteen and later abbot of several houses. In 1074, at Pope Gregory VII's request, he led a band of hermits and founded the monastery of Molesme.
Seeking stricter observance, he took part in the founding of Cîteaux, cradle of the Cistercians, before being recalled to Molesme, which became an ardent centre of monastic life. He died there on 17 April 1111.
The miracles
In 1222 Pope Honorius III authorised his veneration at Molesme, which was soon extended to the whole Church.
Why that counted as sanctity
A founder of monasteries who sought ever greater fidelity to the Rule.
Connected on this site
- Bernard of Clairvaux Saint“At 22, after studying grammar and rhetoric, he entered the monastery Robert of Molesme had founded at Cîteaux, bringing with him relatives including four brothers, an uncle and a cousin.” — this site's research
- Gregory VII Saint“In 1074, at Pope Gregory VII's request, he led a band of hermits and founded the monastery of Molesme.” — this site's research
- Catholic Encyclopedia (1913), via New Advent - St. Robert of Molesme
- Wikidata Q503235 — dates, feast day and identifiers (CC0)
- English Wikipedia — Robert of Molesme (CC BY-SA)
Checked against the sources listed on 21 September 2026. Corrections welcome.