Saint Robert began his religious life as a rector of a parish in the diocese of York, and after becoming a Benedictine monk, attempting to practice its primitive rule, his small monastery was accepted into the Cistercian order by St. Bernard. He was then asked to become abbot of a new Cistercian monastery in Northumberland in 1137. His attachment to holy prayer was great to be expressed. He recommended to God continually those committed to his care and with many tears poured forth his soul for them night and day. He was favored with the gift of prophecy and miracles. He founded another monastery in Northhamptonshire and lived in the strictest union of holy friendship with St. Bernard. He died a happy death on the 7^th of June, 1159.