St. Hedwig of Poland
King of Poland (1373/74-1399), youngest daughter of King Louis I of Hungary and Poland, crowned king (rex) of Poland at age 11; her marriage at 12 to Jogaila of Lithuania (Władysław II Jagiełło) brought about the Christianization of Lithuania - the last pagan state in Europe. Foundress of academic colleges; refounded the University of Kraków. Canonized 1997 by John Paul II.
Life & Times
Born: 1373 or 1374 · Died: 1399 · From: Hungary / Poland.
Patronage
St. Hedwig of Poland is invoked as the patron of queens, poland, lithuania, united europe. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Hedwig of Poland, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.