St Louis IX of France
Today we celebrate the feast day of St. Louis of France. St. Louis was actually very different from many other kings, he is different because he actually interpreted his kingly duties in the light of faith. After the very intense violence of two previous reigns, he was able to bring peace and justice.
St. Louis actually deserves credit for extending justice in civil administration. His many regulations for the royal officials became the first of a series of many reform laws. He was able to replace trial by battle with a form of examination of witnesses and encouraged the use of written records in court.
St. Louis was truly devoted to many people, he was also able to found many hospitals, he would visit the sick, and like his patron Saint Francis, he would care for people with leprosy. He is a patron saint of the Secular Franciscan Order. St. Louis was also able to unite France especially the lords and townsfolk, peasants and priests and knights. He was able to unite them by the force of his personality and holiness. For many years the nation was at peace thanks to his success.
Every day St. Louis would have 13 guests from among the poor so that they could eat with him, and a large number of the poor would also be served meals near his palace. During Advent and Lent, all who presented themselves would be given a meal, and St. Louis would serve the meals himself. He also kept lists of needy people, whom he regularly relieved, in every province of his dominion.
St. Louis had passed away at the age of 56. He was canonized 27 years later. St. Louis is the patron saint of barbers, grooms, and the Secular Franciscan Order. St. Louis’ feast day is celebrated on August 25.
Prayer to St. Louis:
St. Louis intercede that we may be able to guide more people to Christ through acts of peace and charity. Help us to be more peaceful with others and help us to treat others with peace and love.
Amen
St. Louis pray for us
St. Joseph pray for us
May we continue to strengthen our journey to sainthood and keep others in our prayers.
Works cited
Information (read from, not taken):
Franciscan media. “St Louis of France. ”Saint Louis of France | Franciscan Media. Accessed August 25, 2021.
Images:
St Louis IX of France. August 25, 2021. St Louis IX of France - Google Search.