From a young age, he was instilled with deep Christian values, largely due to the influence of his devout mother.

Louis’s daily life reflected his strong faith. He attended Mass twice daily, recited the Divine Office, and wore a hairshirt beneath his clothing as a form of penance. Known for his humility and charity, he often served the poor personally, washing their feet on Holy Thursdays and inviting them to dine with him. He also founded numerous hospitals and charitable institutions, including the Quinze-Vingts for 300 blind men and homes for reformed prostitutes.

His education was comprehensive. Tutors selected by Blanche taught him Latin, public speaking, writing, military arts, and governance. However, Blanche’s primary goal was to cultivate in him a deep respect for religion. Louis was taught to view all aspects of life through the lens of faith, fostering humility in prosperity and endurance in adversity. Among his instructors were several Franciscan friars.

At just 12 years old, Louis became king following the death of his father on November 8, 1226. His coronation took place on November 29, 1226, at Reims Cathedral. Due to his youth, his mother, Blanche served as regent and effectively ruled France during his minority.

Louis IX consecrated his kingdom to Christ through personal piety, legal and administrative reforms guided by Christian principles, and leadership in crusades aimed at defending Christendom and the Holy Land. His reign is often considered the economic and political zenith of medieval France, and he was widely respected across Christendom for his fairness and wisdom.

In his personal life, Louis married Margaret of Provence in 1234, and they had eleven children. Their marriage was marked by mutual respect and shared religious fervor.

Louis IX’s legacy extended beyond his lifetime. He is the only King of France to be canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church. Pope Boniface VIII canonized him in 1297, just 27 years after his death. He is regarded as the model of the ideal Christian monarch. His “Enseignements,” or teachings written for his son Philip III, outlined how to be a moral and just leader, emphasizing love for God, justice, and care for the poor.