St. Louis IX
King of France (1214-1270), reigned from 1226; renowned for personal piety, justice (the "oak of Vincennes"), and ascetic discipline. Led the Seventh and Eighth Crusades; died of disease at Tunis on the latter. Built the Sainte-Chapelle for the Crown of Thorns. Patron of the Third Order of St. Francis; canonized 1297 by Boniface VIII.
Life & Times
Born: 25 April 1214 · Died: 25 August 1270 · From: France / Tunisia.
Patronage
St. Louis IX is invoked as the patron of france, kings, tertiaries, crusaders, difficult marriages. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
“In prosperity, give thanks to God with humility and fear, lest by pride you abuse God's benefits.”— Letter of Instructions to his son Philip, written shortly before his death on crusade (1270)
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Louis IX, 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.