St. Francis Borgia (1510-1572)
Image Courtesy: Catholic Online
(Franciscan Media) Born in Spain Valencia, Francis grew up in an important 16th century family, serving early in the Imperial Court and quickly advancing in his career but a series of events–including the death of his beloved wife, made Francis reconsider his priorities. — Francis would subsequently give away all of his possessions and would join the new and little known ‘Society of Jesus.’
A religious life proved to be the correct decision for Francis, he felt drawn to spend time in prayer and seclusion however his administrative talents also made him a natural for other vital tasks.
Francis would help in the establishment of what is know Gregorian University in Rome–Not long after his Ordination in 1551 now Fr. Francis Borgia, served as political and spiritual advisor to the Emperor in Spain, he would likewise go on to found a dozen colleges. At the age of 55, Fr. Francis Borgia was elected head of the Jesuits, he would focus on the growth of the ‘Society of Jesus’ together with the spiritual preparation of its new members and ministering throughout Europe. –Fr. Francis Borgia was likewise responsible for the founding of Jesuit Missions in Florida, Mexico and Peru.
Often regarded as the ‘Second Founder of the Jesuits’ Fr. Francis Borgia passed away in 1572 in Italy Ferrara; Beatified in in 1624 by Pope Gregory XV in Spain Madrid and Canonized in 1670 by Pope Clement X
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