Who he was
Educated by the Jesuits at Como, he studied law and served in the papal administration before becoming a cardinal in 1645. As legate to famine-stricken Ferrara he was introduced as 'father of the poor', and as Bishop of Novara he gave all the income of his see to the poor and sick. He was elected unanimously, and as pope lived plainly, cut the costs of the Curia and set the papal finances in order.
What he is remembered for
His tireless appeals brought the Emperor's forces and King John Sobieski of Poland to relieve Vienna from the Turkish siege in 1683, and he paid large sums towards freeing Hungary. He stood firm for the freedom of the Church against Louis XIV, encouraged frequent and even daily Communion, and condemned errors in moral theology and the Quietism of Molinos. His cause was long delayed, and Pius XII beatified him on 7 October 1956.
He is honoured by the Church as Blessed. Read his page in the dictionary of saints.
Sources
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