The Patron Saint of Skiers

December 4, 2016 The Wisconsin Skier Après Ski 0

Did you know that skiing has a patron saint? Yes, the patron saint of skiers is St. Bernard of Montjoux and he is also the patron saint of:

Snowboarders
Backpackers
Hikers
Mountaineers

the patron saint of skiers -- snow covered st. bernard dog — The St. Bernard

The story is St. Bernard grew up in Italy and joined the priesthood. He rose through the ranks and became an archdeacon. He worked to bring the people of the Alps and Lombardy into the church.

Under his leadership the church built schools, churches, and hostels in the Alps. The hostels were located along a commonly used and dangerous pass travelers took to get from France and Germany to Rome. The hostels offered weary travlers, shelter, food, and drink.

Yes, the breed of dogs we refer to as St. Bernards are from this region and are named after him.

Saint Bernard of Montjoux pray for us and snow!