SAINT ALPHONSUS
Saint Alphonsus B y Edward Matulanya Here are early life, Religious life, Spirituality, virtues, Legacy, prayer, death and canonization of Saint Alphonsus Rodríguez (1532 – 1617). Feast Day: October 31 Early Life Saint Alphonsus Rodríguez was born in Segovia, Spain, on July 25, 1532 (some sources record 1533). His father was a wool merchant who often hosted Saint Peter Faber, one of the early companions of Saint Ignatius of Loyola. Faber prepared young Alphonsus for his First Communion (Jesuit.org.sg, 2023). After his father’s death, Alphonsus left formal studies to help manage the family business. At 26, he married María Suárez, and the couple had three children. Within a few years, his wife and all three children died, leaving him devastated (Diocese of Boise, 2024). Seeking a deeper purpose, he sold his business and desired to join the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). However, he was initially refused because of his age, health, and lack of education (Catholic.com, 2024...