B. Innocent XI, Pope

Blessed Innocent XI (1611-1689) was a Pope of the Catholic Church who served from 1676 until his death. Born Benedetto Odescalchi in Como, Italy, he was known for his efforts to reform the Church and curb the abuses of the clergy. As Pope, he opposed nepotism and the extravagant lifestyles of the nobility. He also worked to improve the finances of the Papal States and supported the defense of Vienna against the Ottoman Empire. Innocent XI is venerated for his piety, administrative reforms, and his resistance to the absolutist ambitions of King Louis XIV of France. He is the patron saint of bankers and those in financial difficulties.