As Catholics, we are desperate for some bold leadership.

Goethe, the famous German author, once wrote, "Be bold and mighty forces will come to your aid." It is this boldness that the Church needs. It is as true for a local pastor in his parish as it is for a pope on an international scale. The people are desperate for authentic leadership. They are lost and lonely, like sheep without a shepherd. 

There is boldness in Catholicism when it is truly lived. People are hungry for the truth, but we are afraid to give it to them. The truth will set them free, but we don't have the courage to proclaim it (see John 8:32).

Saint Louis, also known as King Louis IX of France, was one man bold enough to go to war for the Catholic faith—literally. Born on April 25, 1214, Louis ascended to the throne at age 12. Under the guidance of his devout mother, Queen Blanche of Castile, he grew into a leader who fused his deep spirituality with a fearless commitment to justice and truth. 

He attended Mass twice daily and was known for his acts of charity, including washing the feet of the poor. His prayer life gave him courage, empowering him to lead with a boldness that inspired his people.

In 1248, to protect Christianity and reclaim the Holy Land, King Louis led the Seventh Crusade. He was captured by enemies in Egypt, but his courage did not waver and he would not renounce his faith. Eventually Louis was released and chose to remain in the Holy Land for four years, securing the Christian Kingdom of Jerusalem.

When he finally returned to France, King Louis applied this same boldness to governing the country. He implemented significant legal reforms, appointed just officials, and created a supreme court for France to hear difficult cases. These actions ruffled the dukes and wealthy landowners, but that did not stop Louis. 

Saint Louis died during the Eighth Crusade. He was canonized only 27 years later as a role model for all Catholic leaders.

To be a Catholic leader is to hold a position of spiritual leadership. The primary concern of a Catholic leader is dedication to the spiritual life. You will never meet a prayerful coward. Virtue is bold, goodness is not fearful, and prayerful leaders are courageous leaders. And courage, like every other virtue, is contagious.

How can you spread courage to the people you lead?



Feast Day: August 25 

Feast Day Shared By: Saint Joseph Calasanz

Patron Saint of: France, Barbers, and Groomers

Symbols: The Crown of Thorns

Canonized: July 11, 1297

Canonized By: Pope Boniface VIII