Francis Borgia was the Duke of Gandía in Spain who gave up his rank to become a Jesuit priest. As the third Superior General, he guided the Society's growth and missions.
Life
Francis Borgia was born in 1510 into a prominent Spanish noble family. He served at the imperial court, married and had several children, and governed wide lands as Duke of Gandía.
After his wife died in 1546, he resolved to join the Society of Jesus founded by St. Ignatius. Once he had provided for his children, he gave up his title, became a priest, and was known as a humble preacher.
In 1565 he was elected the third Superior General of the Jesuits and strongly promoted the founding of schools and missions abroad. He died in Rome in 1572 and was canonized in 1671.
Spirituality
The spirituality of St. Francis Borgia is the insight that worldly glory passes away, together with a complete surrender to Christ. Once a man of high rank, he humbled himself in prayer and penance, and put all his gifts and experience at the service of the Church's mission.
Reflection
St. Francis Borgia found greater freedom when he let go of what he had. Why not quietly ask which of the positions or possessions I cling to I am being invited to entrust to God?