Thirteenth-century king of France, admired for just rule and love for the poor.
Life
Saint Louis was born in 1214 and became King Louis IX of France at the age of twelve. During his youth his devout mother, Blanche of Castile, ruled as regent and raised him.
He sought to establish fair justice and good law, personally cared for the poor and the sick, and founded hospitals and monasteries. He built the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris to house the relic of Christ's crown of thorns. He led two crusades and was taken captive during the first.
He died of illness near Tunis in 1270 during his second crusade and was canonized in 1297. The Church remembers him on August 25.
Spirituality
Louis's spirituality is holiness lived in the middle of the world. As king he treasured daily prayer and Mass and tried to govern with justice and mercy. It is said that even in his high position he was humble enough to wash the feet of the poor.
Reflection
Even amid the duties of a king, Louis never let go of prayer. With so many responsibilities at work and at home, when in my day do I give time to God?