Saint Louis Happy Birthday

“The King Who Served” is a devotional hymn celebrating Saint Louis IX of France, the medieval king who sought to place his royal authority at the service of God, justice and the poor. Born in 1214, Louis became King of France as a young man. At his coronation, he made a solemn commitment to rule as God's anointed and as a father to his people. Unlike many rulers who made similar promises, Louis took those obligations seriously and sought to govern according to his Christian faith. His reign became known for justice, peace and reform. He strengthened royal administration, encouraged written records in courts and promoted the examination of witnesses rather than relying on trial by battle. Yet Saint Louis is perhaps most movingly remembered for his personal care of the poor. Each day, he invited thirteen poor people to eat with him, while many more were fed near his palace. During Advent and Lent, he personally served those who came seeking food. He kept records of people in need throughout his kingdom so that they could receive regular assistance. He also founded hospitals, visited the sick and cared for people suffering from leprosy. His example reflected the Christian conviction that the poor and suffering are not strangers to Christ, but people whom Christians are called to serve with dignity and love. Louis also took the Cross and led a Crusade to Egypt. His army captured Damietta, but disease and lack of support brought disaster. Louis himself was captured, and he secured the release of his army by surrendering Damietta and paying a ransom. He later remained in the Holy Land and Syria for several years. In 1270, Louis embarked on another Crusade, this time to North Africa. Soon after landing near Carthage, disease devastated the army. Louis himself died there at the age of 56. He was canonized only 27 years after his death and became a patron of the Secular Franciscan Order, reflecting his admiration for the example of Saint Francis and his love for the