Norbert of Xanten

Born around 1080 in Xanten, Holy Roman Empire, Norbert initially served as a secular canon at the imperial court. A radical conversion in 1115, following a riding accident and a mystical experience, led him to abandon court life for itinerant preaching and penance. In 1121, he founded the Order of Canons Regular of Prémontré (the Norbertines), based on the Rule of Saint Augustine, emphasizing communal life, solemn liturgy, and pastoral ministry. He was appointed Archbishop of Magdeburg in 1126, where he worked to reform the clergy and defend the Church's rights against imperial interference. He died on June 6, 1134, in Magdeburg and was canonized in 1582. His relics were transferred to Strahov Monastery in Prague in 1627.