Today, March 4, is the memorial of Saint Casimir.
Prince Casimir was born in 1458 in Krakow, Poland. He was the youngest son of king Casimir IV of Poland and Elizabeth of Austria.
Casimir, who dedicated himself to lifelong celibacy, was known for his austere life, sleeping on bare ground and spending much of the night rapt in prayer. He was greatly devoted to the Virgin Mary, lived a life of virtue, and helped the poor and needy.
Although he obeyed his father and the noblemen in accepting the crown, Casimir decided not to exercise his power. His decision led to the failure of his troops during the war. Casimir returned home, and was a conscientious objector from that time on.
He focused on his prayer life and studies, resisting the pressure of an arranged marriage. He insisted that he could serve God better as a single person, instead of a married man.
Despite all the talk against him, Casimir maintained his humble demeanor, aware that his actions were being seen by God.
In 1484, at the age of 25, Casimir died of tuberculosis.