π Life Timeline
1458
Born in March 1458 AD, Krakow, Poland
1458
Born Casimir Jagiellon on March 25, 1458 in Vilnius, Lithuania, son of King Casimir IV of Poland and Elizabeth of Austri
1484
by serving at a table for the poor
1521
but I have always desired to do so
1484
Died β March 4, 1484 AD, Krakow
1521
Canonized β 1521 by Pope Leo X
β Biography
Born Casimir Jagiellon on March 25, 1458 in Vilnius, Lithuania, son of King Casimir IV of Poland and Elizabeth of Austria. The sixth son, not expected to inherit the throne, he was free to devote himself to piety. Studied at Krakow, then traveled to Italy, France, and Germany. Renowned for his charityβhe gave away his clothes to the poor and hosted the needy at his table. When his father arranged a political marriage, Casimir insisted the bride first demonstrate humility by serving at a table for the poor. Died June 25, 1484 at age 26, possibly of tuberculosis. His deathbed words: 'O Lord, I have done nothing for You; but I have always desired to do so.' Canonized in 1521 by Pope Leo Xβthe first Polish saint canonized. Patron of Lithuania, Poland, youth, and students.
π‘ Patronage
Patron of: Young people, Poland, students, princes, and those called to celibacy.
π¬ Words of the Saint
I want to be king of heaven, not of Lithuania.
π Key Facts
Born
March 1458 AD, Krakow, Poland
Died
March 4, 1484 AD, Krakow
Feast Day
Mar 4
Canonized
1521 by Pope Leo X
π Legacy
Casimir is Poland's patron saint of youth. His choice of holiness over a crown inspired generations of Polish Catholics. His feast day is celebrated with special masses for young people throughout Poland.