Hl. Aloisius von Gonzaga

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Youthful figure of Saint Aloysius Gonzaga stands tall with cross and lily prominently displayed before the church of St. Ulrich in Vienna. This captivating figure from the latter half of the 18th century is a masterpiece crafted by Franz Xaver Seegen. Aloysius Gonzaga, born in 1568, lived a life that would be cut tragically short in 1591. At just ten years old, he was appointed page to the esteemed Medici family at their court in Brescia. Later, he served at the majestic court of King Philipp II of Spain in Madrid. Gonzaga's unwavering dedication to caring for the sick ultimately led to his untimely demise. During a devastating plague epidemic that swept through Rome, Aloysius contracted the disease and passed away at a mere 23 years old. On December 31, 1726, he was elevated to sainthood by Pope Benedict XIII in a ceremony that honored his remarkable life and selfless service.