St. Casimir
St. Casimir
When He Lived
Saint Casimir, also known as Saint Casimir Jagiellon, was born on October 3, 1458, in Wawel Castle, Kraków, Poland. He lived during the late 15th century, specifically during the years 1458-1484.
Where He Lived
Saint Casimir lived primarily in the Kingdom of Poland, which was a powerful and culturally significant country during that period. He spent much of his time in Kraków, the royal capital of Poland, which was a vibrant center of arts, culture, and politics.
Notable World Events during His Life
- The Renaissance: Saint Casimir’s era witnessed the peak of the Renaissance in Europe. This intellectual and artistic movement transformed the continent, leading to the revival of classical learning, scientific advancements, and innovative artistic expressions.
- The Age of Discovery: During Casimir’s lifetime, explorers like Christopher Columbus, Vasco da Gama, and John Cabot embarked on monumental voyages, which expanded the known world and connected different civilizations through trade and exploration.
- The Invention of the Printing Press: Johannes Gutenberg’s invention of the movable-type printing press around 1440 revolutionized communication and knowledge dissemination, contributing to the spread of ideas, literature, and education.
- The Ottoman Empire’s Expansion: The Ottoman Empire, a significant geopolitical power at the time, was expanding into Europe, influencing political dynamics and leading to conflicts, particularly in Eastern Europe.
- The End of the Hundred Years’ War: The Hundred Years’ War between France and England concluded in 1453, which reshaped the political landscape of Europe, leading to the emergence of strong nation-states.
Patronage
Saint Casimir is the patron saint of Poland and Lithuania. He is also venerated as the patron saint of youth, bachelors, students, and people of good moral character. His devotion to faith, his compassion, and his commitment to justice make him an inspiring figure for those seeking guidance in leading virtuous lives.
Casimir’s life was marked by his dedication to his faith, his concern for the well-being of his subjects, and his commitment to upholding Christian values. Despite being a prince, he lived a humble and pious life, demonstrating compassion towards the less fortunate and promoting religious tolerance. His legacy continues to inspire people to this day, reminding us of the importance of kindness, integrity, and devotion to one’s beliefs.
Early Life
He was the son of Poland’s King Casimir IV and Elizabeth of
Austria. He was the third son of thirteen children.
Dedication and Devotion
He began his studies alongside his brothers with Priest John Dlugosz. Casimir would go on to learn about devotion and politics from him.
Casimir wasn’t like a typical royal son. He didn’t subscribe to the luxurious lifestyle that came with being a prince; instead, he dedicated his life to God. He wore plain clothes and refused to sleep on royal beds. He slept on the floor; he denied himself comfort.
He had great values and was remarkable in his self-discipline, even as an adolescent. He was always calm in the face of pressure.
He was so dedicated to God that he spent most of his nights praying and meditating. He was devoted to the Blessed Sacrament.
He gave heartily to the poor and needy in the land. Casimir was empathetic and compassionate when relating to people. He lived his life as a common man.
Legacy
At 13, he would have become the king of Hungary, as the Hungarians asked his father, the king, to offer him to them as their new king. While he went to lead the Hungarians to war out of obedience to his father, his heart was not there. He felt deeply that God didn’t want that to happen. He eventually had to return to Poland when the plan went south.
The army he was to lead was outnumbered by the Turks (the enemy), and some of his soldiers left the mission as they were owed. His officers advised him to return home, and he did.
His father was mad at the situation and had him punished for failing on the mission. While serving his punishment, he made up his mind to never be involved in anything that had to do with war again. He continued in his devotion to God.
He returned to his studies with Dlugosz, as he learned by observing his father’s rule. To form an alliance with the emperor, Casimir was asked to marry the Emperor’s daughter. He vehemently refused and chose a life of celibacy to honor God.
He was pressured on every side, but he stood firm in his beliefs and devotion to God. Luxuries became a temptation to him, and he was unwavering in his loyalty to God.
In 1471, his father went on a journey. He was away from 1479 to 1483 to attend to the state’s business in Lithuania. Casimir was in charge of Poland while his father was away, from 1481 to 1483.
Casimir became sick and knew the end was drawing closer; hence, he drew closer to God in his devotion.
500 years after his death, [Pope John Paul II mentioned how St. Casimir embraced a life of celibacy, submitted himself humbly to God’s will in all things, devoted himself with tender love to the Blessed Virgin Mary, and developed a fervent practice of adoring Christ present in the Blessed Sacrament.”]
[“To all,” the Pope said, “he was a shining example of poverty and of sacrificial love for the poor and needy.”]
Death and Canonization
Casimir died at a young age. He died at 25 of lung disease on March 4, 1484. He was buried in Vilnius, Lithuania.
He was canonized in 1522 by Pope Adrian VI.
5 Interesting Facts About St. Casimir
- Did you know that Casimir is also patron of the Knights of St. John?
- Did you know that “Daily, Daily Sing to Mary” was Casmir’s
favorite hymn? - Did you know that Casimir was the Grand Duke of Lithuania?
- Did you know that 15-year-old Casimir was held in confinement for three
months when he failed his father? - Did you know that Casimir served as regent of the nation while his
father was away?
Prayer to St. Casimir
All-powerful God, to serve you is to reign. By the prayers of Saint Casimir, help us to serve you in holiness and justice. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever Amen.
Reference
[https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-casimir]{.ul}
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint/st-casimir-of-poland-167
