St. Aloysius Gonzaga
“It is better to be the child of God than king of the whole world.”
—St. Aloysius Gonzaga
St. Aloysius Gonzaga – June 21
St. Aloysius Gonzaga is the patron saint of young people, students, and those striving for purity. Born into nobility, he gave up a promising future of wealth and power to follow Christ in humble service. His life was marked by innocence, sacrifice, and a burning love for God—even unto death.
A Noble Childhood with a Higher Calling
Aloysius was born in 1568 into the powerful Gonzaga family of northern Italy. As the eldest son, he was expected to inherit titles and govern land. From a young age, however, Aloysius showed a deep love for prayer and virtue. While other boys played, he meditated on the Passion of Christ. While others pursued glory, he desired holiness.
Despite pressure from his father to become a soldier and statesman, Aloysius knew God was calling him to a different path. At age nine, he made a private vow of chastity. At fifteen, he renounced his inheritance and resolved to enter religious life.
A Jesuit and Servant of the Sick
In 1585, Aloysius joined the Society of Jesus—the Jesuits—despite his frail health. He spent his days in study, prayer, and humble tasks. During a terrible plague in Rome, he volunteered to care for the sick and dying. Though his superiors tried to shield him due to his weak constitution, Aloysius insisted on serving.
He caught the disease while nursing the poor and died shortly after, at just 23 years old, in 1591. His joy, purity, and peace never wavered, even as he suffered.
Legacy and Inspiration
St. Aloysius Gonzaga is a model of youthful holiness. He reminds us that true greatness lies not in wealth, popularity, or power—but in obedience to God’s will and in love that serves others. He is especially honored by students, seminarians, and all striving for chastity and virtue in a world full of distractions.
Though he lived only a short time on earth, his impact has been profound and lasting. He was canonized in 1726 and remains one of the most beloved saints of the Catholic Church.