Aloysius Gonzaga

I had heard of St. Aloysius from my youth because it was a big all boys Catholic high school in New Orleans. It was somewhat controversial when the school was merged with another all boy Catholic high school, Cor Jesu, to form Brother Martin High School. As far as the name of Gonzaga, I never connected the last name with that of good St. Aloysius. In fact I'm a bit embarrased to admit that first remember the name Gonzaga when the college named for the Catholic saint began making a name for itself with a pretty impressive men's basketball program.

Saint Aloysius, whose memorial we celebrated today, was born in 1568 in Italy. His family was wealthy and owned lots of land. Aloysius, who was mainly instructed in the faith by his mother, showed an inclination to the religious life very early on. He gave away his inheritance and joined the Jesuits. He served faithfully and wrote beautifully. He attended with great care to the sick and in 1591, at the young age of 23, died of the plague.

He was fond of these words from St. Paul: weep with those who weep and rejoice with those who are glad.

He was canonized in 1726 by Pope Benedict 13th and was named patron saint of young students by Pope Pius 11th in 1926.

St. Aloysius Gonzaga, pray for us! A.M.D.G.