1100s Archives - Q Spirit

Malachy of Armagh: Same-sex soulmate to Bernard of Clairvaux

by Kittredge Cherry | | Nov. 1-15, Saints

Malachy of Armagh is an 11th-century Irish saint who died in the arms of his more famous soulmate, Saint Bernard of Clairvaux. Their monastic community honored the male couple as “two stars of such surpassing brightness” and a “twofold treasure.” Bernard showered...

Hildegard of Bingen and Richardis: Medieval mystic and the woman she loved

by Kittredge Cherry | | May 1-15, Saints, Sept 15-30

Hildegard of Bingen was a medieval German mystic, poet, artist, composer, healer and scientist — and likely lesbian. She loved another nun named Richardis and wrote with ecstasy about the Virgin Mary. She celebrated God’s green web of life as “viriditas.” Her...

Bernard of Clairvaux and Malachy: Abbot and the archbishop he loved

by Kittredge Cherry | | Aug 15-31, Saints

Bernard of Clairvaux was a medieval French abbot who wrote homoerotic poetry about Jesus and had a passionate same-sex friendship with Irish archbishop Malachy of Armagh. Bernard is best known for founding 70 monasteries around Europe and for his mystical writings....

Aelred of Rievaulx: Gay saint of friendship

by Kittredge Cherry | | Jan 1-15, Saints

Aelred of Rievaulx is considered one of the most lovable saints, the patron saint of friendship and also, some say, a gay saint. He found divine love through friendships with other men. Aelred (1109-1167) was the abbot of the large, influential Cistercian abbey of...