From Nobleman to Saint: Celebrating St. Aloysius Gonzaga

If the name “Gonzaga” makes you think of college basketball and March Madness… you’re not wrong! But long before buzzer-beaters and tournament brackets, there was a holy young man named Aloysius Gonzaga who was shooting for something greater than trophies: sainthood.

On June 21st, we will honor the life and legacy of the patron saint of youth, students, and those suffering from plagues—and invite you to join us in a prayerful journey through our novena and playlist, available now in the Tabella App.

Listen to the Novena and Playlist

Who Was St. Aloysius Gonzaga?

Born in 1568 into Italian nobility, Aloysius was raised in a castle, groomed for a military career like his father. But by age 9, he was already reading the lives of the saints and longing for a life devoted to God. Even while sick and recovering in Florence, he deepened his relationship with Christ and felt drawn to the Jesuits—specifically to missionary life.

Despite intense opposition from his father, Aloysius renounced his inheritance and joined the Society of Jesus at 18. This act of surrender was a radical rejection of worldly power, signaling his deep trust in God’s will.

When a deadly plague broke out in Rome, Aloysius, still a young Jesuit in formation, volunteered to care for the sick. He washed their wounds, comforted the dying, and caught the disease himself. He died soon after—just 23 years old—on June 21, 1591, after having predicted his own passing following a vision of the Archangel Gabriel.

Why He Still Inspires Us

St. Aloysius’s legacy is one of purity, prayer, and heroic sacrifice. He’s a shining reminder that youth is not a limitation—it’s a powerful platform for holiness. His life was marked by:

• A vow of perpetual chastity

• Daily devotion to prayer and the Psalms

• Fearless service to the sick and poor

• A burning love for Jesus and Mary

Though he was never ordained a priest, Aloysius lived and died as a witness to God’s mercy and truth. Mystics like St. Maria Magdalena de Pazzi even saw him in visions, glowing with heavenly glory.

A Prayer to St. Aloysius Gonzaga

Let us ask for his intercession today, especially for young people, students, and anyone facing illness:

O Saint Aloysius, adorned with angelical manners, although I am thy unworthy servant, I recommend to thee in an especial manner the chastity of my soul and body.

I conjure thee, by thy angelical purity, to commend me to Jesus Christ, the spotless Lamb, and to His most holy Mother, the Virgin of virgins.

Preserve me from every grievous sin; never suffer me to sully my soul with any impurity.

Whenever thou seest me in temptation or danger of sin, ward off from me every impure thought and affection, and awaken in me the remembrance of eternity and of Jesus crucified.

Imprint deeply in my heart the sentiment of the fear of God.

Inflame me with divine love, in order that by imitating thee on earth, I may merit to enjoy God with thee in heaven.

Amen.

Celebrate St. Aloysius Gonzaga’s feast day by joining our 9-day novena playlist and immersing yourself in his story. Whether you’re a student, a teacher, or simply someone seeking to grow in holiness, his life offers profound lessons in sacrifice, trust, and joy in the Lord.

Download the Tabella App today to listen, pray, and reflect.

St. Aloysius Gonzaga, pray for us!