Franciscan Saint | St. Louis of Toulouse

Born in 1274 as the son of King Charles II of Naples, Louis was drawn to prayer and simplicity from an early age, rather than to courtly life.

While still a teenager, he was taken hostage in Aragon. During his captivity, Louis was tutored by Franciscan friars, and made great progress in both his studies and spiritual life. Inspired by St. Francis, he also developed a deep love for those afflicted with leprosy.

Upon his release in 1295, Louis renounced his right of succession and entered the Order of Friars Minor. He was later appointed Bishop of Toulouse at just 23 years old. As bishop, he continued to live with Franciscan simplicity, preferring worn habits over episcopal regalia and even at times begging. He set aside 75% of his income to feed the poor, and each day he fed 25 poor people at his table.

He died young, at only 23, in 1297, and was canonized in 1317 by Pope John XXII, one of his former teachers.

"Jesus Christ is all my riches; he alone is sufficient for me." – St. Louis of Toulouse

Reflection: Do I seek recognition, or do I choose humility and service like St. Louis?