Saint Stanislaus Kostka

Saint Stanislaus Kostka, born in 1550 in Poland, joined the Society of Jesus at the age of 17, that is why he is depicted in this painting as a very young man. 

It is said that the saint was very devout and dedicated to the religious life. So much so that he traveled from Poland to Rome by foot, demonstrating his commitment to the Society of Jesus and his spiritual determination. 

The lilies staff he holds represents his purity. 

The radiance surrounding his face alludes to the divine grace that accompanied him. It is told, for instance, that the Virgin appeared to him before his admission to the order. 

In addition to his commitment to the faith, Saint Stanislaus stood out for his love of learning. From a very young age, he entered a school run by Jesuits. 

The saint fell seriously ill in August 1568 and asked the Virgin Mary to take him to heaven to celebrate with her the feast of her Assumption. 

On August 15th, 1568, Saint Stanislaus passed away. He was beatified in 1605 and canonized in 1726. 

Along with Saint Aloysius Gonzaga and Saint John Berchmans, this saint is known as part of the group of young Jesuits who set an example with their early dedication to the faith. 

This painting is in the altarpiece of Saint Francis Solano in the former Santa Clara church, alongside other Jesuit saints and the formula of the consecration of the host, as Saint Stanislaus was very devoted to the sacrament of communion.