St. Stanislaus Kostka

St. Stanislaus Kostka (1550-1568) was a Polish Jesuit novice and is considered the patron saint of Polish youth. Born into a noble family, he experienced a profound religious conversion as a teenager and joined the Jesuit order against his family's wishes. He is known for his deep devotion, love of the Eucharist, and miracles associated with him, including bilocations and visions of the Virgin Mary. St. Stanislaus is venerated for his piety, obedience, and holy death at the age of 18. He is the patron saint of Jesuit novices, Polish youth, and those seeking a vocation.