Stephen was born in south-west England and, as a youth, spent time at the Sherborne Abbey in Dorset.

After Robert was ordered back to Molesme by Pope Urban II, Alberic became abbot and served for nine years until his death.

[1] In 1119, Stephen received official approbation for the Carta Caritatis (Charter of Charity), an important document for the Cistercian Order, establishing its unifying principles.

[7] Insisting on simplicity in all aspects of monastic life, Stephen encouraged the severity of Cistercian architecture and the simple beauty of the Order's liturgy and music.

[11] In a joint commemoration with Robert of Molesme and Alberic, the first two abbots of Cîteaux, the Cistercians and Benedictines today celebrate Stephen Harding's feast day on 26 January.