Saint Siard

Biography

Saint Siard, also known as Siardo or Siardus, was born into a noble family in the region of Friesland, which is now a part of modern-day Netherlands. Growing up, he showed a great affinity for spirituality and dedicated himself to the pursuit of knowledge at the abbey school of Mariëngaarde in Friesland. During his studies, Siard came under the guidance and influence of Frederick of Hallum, a renowned spiritual figure of his time. Siard's encounter with Frederick proved to be transformative, as he was inspired to embrace a life of deep devotion and contemplation. In the early 1170s, Siard made a significant decision to join the Premonstratensians, an order known for its adherence to the Norbertine rule. Siard's commitment to the order was unwavering, and he poured his heart and soul into serving God within this religious community. Siard's dedication and holiness did not go unnoticed, and in 1194, he was appointed as the abbot of the house in Mariëngaarde, where he served for an impressive 36 years. As an abbot, Siard exemplified the Norbertine rule, embodying its values and principles in all aspects of his life. One of Siard's notable attributes was his love for the contemplative life. He found solace and renewal through intimate communion with God, and this profound spirituality radiated from him, inspiring others to deepen their own relationship with the Divine. In addition to his contemplative pursuits, Siard was characterized by his generosity towards the poor. His heart overflowed with compassion for those in need, and he made it a priority to provide material support as well as spiritual guidance to those who crossed his path. Siard was also known for his role as a peacemaker. His gentle nature, combined with his wisdom and diplomatic skills, enabled him to bridge divides and foster harmony among those who were in disagreement or conflict. Siard's ability to bring about reconciliation and understanding made him a cherished figure within his community. Devotion to Saint Mary and Saint Martha of Bethany played a significant role in Siard's spiritual life. He frequently invoked their intercession and cited them as examples for his fellow brothers in the Premonstratensian order. The lives of Mary and Martha served as a source of inspiration, encouraging Siard and his brethren to balance contemplation with action, prayer with service. Saint Siard lived a life of profound holiness and humility, dedicating himself entirely to God and his fellow human beings. He passed away in 1230 at the abbey of Mariëngaarde, and his relics were moved to Hildesheim, Germany in 1578 when the abbey was destroyed by Calvinists. Over the centuries, Saint Siard's relics were transferred to various locations, including Tongerlo abbey in Belgium and the abbey of Saint-Feuillin in France. In 2000, some of his relics found a final resting place at the abbey of Windberg in Germany, where they continue to be venerated by the faithful. On March 8, 1728, Pope Benedict XIII acknowledged the cultus (reverence) surrounding Saint Siard by beatifying him, recognizing his sanctity and the impact of his life on the faithful. Though he is not widely known as a patron saint of any specific cause, Saint Siard serves as a timeless reminder of the power of contemplation, compassion, and peace in the Christian life.