Mr. Casanova
Theology 9
15 November 2014
Saint Louis IX
Saint Louis IX was remembered in many ways but especially for his holy and virtuous life. His devotion to Christ began in his early years and continued to his death. Even though he was born into royalty, he treated all people equally.
On April 25, 1214, Saint Louis IX was born in Poissy, France. He was born to the King of France, Louis VIII, and Blanche of Castile. He was baptized at La Collégiale Notre-Dame Church. At the age of twelve, his father died, making Louis the King of France. His mother ruled the kingdom until he reached twenty-one. He married Marguerite of Provence, the daughter of a count. They had eleven children. Marguerite was a devout Catholic which fit …show more content…
Queen Blanche instructed him in all matters of becoming a king but more importantly, she impressed upon him a deep faith. “Blanche's primary concern was to implant in him a deep regard and awe for everything related to religion. She used to say to him as he was growing up, "I love you my dear son, as much as a mother can love her child; but I would rather see you dead at my feet than that you should commit a mortal sin.” (Wallace 101).
Even though Louis was a king he lived a simple and devout lifestyle. He was very busy, but he still found time to go to daily Mass and make a recitation of the Divine Office. There was no separation between what he believed as a Catholic and how he lived. Louis knew how to end arguments and disputes. He paid attention to the poor and the underprivileged and really listened to what they had to say. He made time for everybody, not just rich, he really listened to everyone he never turned away a poor person. He was the ideal king. He ruled his kingdom with wisdom, charity, and true Christian …show more content…
Everyday he would have the beggars eat from his table and he would eat there leftovers.He also built many houses and hospitals for the poor. He also supported many religious organizations such as the Augustine and Carmelite friars. Louis was a patron of the Secular Franciscan Order.
As a beloved saint, Louis was the only king of France to be canonized and his life has had a lasting effect on Christians. There are many places around the world that are named after him. St. Louis was named as a patron of architecture. The Sainte Chappelle (Holy Chapel) was constructed during his reign. He erected it as a monument for the Crown of Thorns and a fragment of the True Cross, precious relics of the Passion of Jesus.Robert of Sorbonne under his authority, founded the "Collège de la Sorbonne," the theological institution in Paris.
Throughout his reign, Louis IX possessed many qualities that made him fit to be a saint. His pious lifestyle, his charity to the poor, and his support of the Church confirmed that he was ready for sainthood. He is remembered as a holy and courageous man throughout the