Saint Charles Borromeo | Stories of Saints | Episode 138

Summary

This video promotes the production of a full-length film on Our Lady of Lourdes, encouraging viewers to support the project through Patreon to unlock more exciting shows. The second part of the video highlights the inspiring life of Saint Charles Borromeo, a reformist cardinal and archbishop. Born in 1538, he played a crucial role in the Counter-Reformation, establishing schools, reforming the clergy, and leading Milan through a devastating plague. Known for his humility, charity, and dedication to the faith, he was canonized in 1610 and is the patron saint of catechists.

Takeaways

• 😀 The production of a full-length film on Our Lady of Lourdes is progressing, with the goal of reaching 500 supporters on Patreon before release.
• 😀 Viewers are encouraged to support the project on Patreon, with pledges starting at just $2 to help fund future exciting shows.
• 😀 Saint Charles Borromeo, born on October 2, 1538, was a key figure in Church reform during the Protestant Reformation.
• 😀 Charles Borromeo was born into a noble family with strong religious values, and his birth was marked by a miraculous light above his family’s castle.
• 😀 He was appointed Cardinal Deacon at the age of 22 by his uncle, Pope Pius IV, and used this role to promote education and reform within the Church.
• 😀 Saint Charles established hospitals, orphanages, and schools, focusing on the welfare of the poor and the education of clergy.
• 😀 Charles was a strong advocate for reform, shutting down corrupt monastic orders, which led to multiple assassination attempts on his life.
• 😀 During the 1570s plague in Milan, Charles led by example, caring for the sick and administering sacraments, even when the city’s officials fled.
• 😀 He demonstrated unparalleled humility, fasting daily and selling all of his personal property to feed the poor.
• 😀 Charles Borromeo's commitment to reform earned him enemies, and he miraculously survived an assassination attempt while celebrating Mass.
• 😀 Saint Charles died on November 3, 1584, and was canonized in 1610. He is remembered as the patron saint of catechists and a model of Christian virtue.

Q & A

Who was Saint Charles Borromeo?

Saint Charles Borromeo was an influential Catholic bishop known for his efforts in church reform, charity, and education. He served as the Archbishop of Milan and was canonized as a saint for his dedication to the church and the people.

What early signs indicated that Charles Borromeo would become a significant religious figure?

Charles Borromeo's birth was marked by a miraculous light above his family’s castle. Additionally, from a young age, he was raised in a deeply religious environment and took steps toward the priesthood, including receiving the tonsure at the age of 12.

How did Charles Borromeo rise to leadership within the Church?

Charles Borromeo’s uncle, Pope Pius IV, appointed him Cardinal Deacon at a young age, and he was also made the administrator of the Archdiocese of Milan at just 22 years old, showcasing his leadership abilities early in his career.

What role did Charles Borromeo play during the Protestant Reformation?

Charles Borromeo was a key figure in the Catholic Counter-Reformation. He was instrumental in implementing reforms within the church, especially following the Council of Trent, and helped combat corruption and immorality within the clergy.

How did Charles Borromeo demonstrate his commitment to church reform?

Charles Borromeo shut down corrupt monastic orders, founded educational institutions for clergy, and demanded better pastoral care for those entrusted to the clergy. He worked tirelessly to ensure that the church adhered to higher standards of holiness and moral discipline.

What actions did Charles Borromeo take during the pandemic in Milan in the 1570s?

During the pandemic, Charles Borromeo stayed in Milan while city officials fled, personally tending to the sick, administering sacraments, and even giving the Eucharist to plague victims through their windows. He became a key worker in caring for the city's population.

What miracles were associated with Saint Charles Borromeo's life?

One notable miracle occurred when an assassin attempted to kill him during Mass. Despite multiple shots being fired, none harmed him, and it was believed that divine intervention or angels protected him.

How did Charles Borromeo live personally in terms of lifestyle and humility?

Charles Borromeo led an extremely humble life, selling his property to feed the poor, fasting regularly, and refusing luxury or gifts. He even reduced his household staff and lived simply to serve others.

What were the lasting impacts of Charles Borromeo's work on the church?

Charles Borromeo's reforms had a lasting effect on the church, especially in the areas of clergy education and pastoral care. His work in founding seminaries, hospitals, and orphanages helped shape the future of Catholic charity and education.

Why is Saint Charles Borromeo considered a saint for our time?

Saint Charles Borromeo is considered a saint for our time because of his selfless actions during crises, such as his care for the sick during the plague in Milan, his dedication to reform, and his example of humility and service to others.