St. Norbert founded the Canons Regular of Prémontré (commonly called the "Norbertines") in 1120, and from the very beginning he wanted his followers to devote themselves to both private and public devotion to the Blessed Sacrament.
This desire flowed out of his own deep devotion to Jesus' presence in the Holy Eucharist.
Apostle of the Blessed Sacrament
Writer Cornelius James Kirkfleet provides a few details about St. Norbert's devotion in his book History of Saint Norbert:
He himself never undertook any important work without first offering up the holy sacrifice of the Mass and spending hours in prayer prostrate before the altar. The very first chapter of the Constitution of the Order has for its title De tremendo altaris Sacramento and explains how to derive from the Blessed Eucharist true zeal for the salvation of souls.
One of the primary aims of the Norbertine Order is "To spread and increase devotion to the Blessed Sacrament."
Pope Francis recognized this essential part of the Norbertines in an address he gave to the religious order in 2022:
Following in the footsteps of Saint Norbert, the piety of the Premonstratensians reserves an increasingly central place for the Eucharist, both in the solemn and intimate community celebration, and in silent worship. Precisely as he is present for us in the Sacrament, so the Lord wants to be present through us in the life of those we meet.
Restoring faith
St. Norbert is also known for his defense of the Holy Eucharist, in particular when the city of Antwerp called upon his help. At the time there was a heretical preacher who tried to eradicate the city's devotion to the Eucharist. St. Norbert then took it upon himself to evangelize the city and restore the faithful's understanding of the Blessed Sacrament.
He was successful in his endeavors and the local people proclaimed him the "Apostle of the Blessed Sacrament," for his work in restoring their faith and devotion.
This is one of the reasons why St. Norbert is traditionally depicted holding a monstrance, highlighting the deep devotion he had to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament and his missionary zeal in proclaiming belief in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.
St. Norbert's legacy continues to be passed on today by many Norbertines across the world, putting an emphasis on Eucharistic worship.
