St. Aloysius Gonzaga

Today is the feast of St. Aloysius Gonzaga, a particularly remarkable saint for today's climate. He died when he was only 23 and hadn't done much in the eyes of the world. His family discouraged his aspirations toward the priesthood, and, when he insisted on joining the Jesuits, even steered him in the direction of the diocesan priesthood so he didn't have to renounce his worldly belongings. We can learn from this young man, who showed his keen love for the Lord early in life by taking a private vow of chastity at the age of nine. May our hearts be as completely consumed with desire for our Lord.