(1214-1270) Louis IX was, naturally, the son of King Louis XIII, and became King of France at age 11. His mother ruled as regent for 11 years, and Louis reigned another 44. He was married at 19 and had 11 children. Saint Louis privately spent long hours in prayer, doing penance, and fasting, and he was known for his charity. He built hospitals, promoted Christianity, aided religious orders, and led two crusades, dying in the second.

Saint Louis didn’t count his position in the world as an advantage over others, but rather a duty to serve. Being fortunate enough to have “had a spiritual awakening,” our duty is to “carry this message to others, and to practice these principles in all our affairs” (Step 12).

“If the Lord has permitted you to have some trial, bear it willingly and with gratitude, considering that it has happened for your good and that perhaps you well deserved it. If the Lord bestows upon you any kind of prosperity, thank him humbly and see that you become no worse for it, either through vain pride or anything else, because you ought not to oppose God or offend him in the matter of his gifts” (Saint Louis IX).

Reflection by Brad Farmer