St. Charles Borromeo was born on October 3, 1538, in the castle of Arona, Italy, as the nephew of Pope Pius IV. He was a talented student who diligently pursued his studies, ultimately earning two doctorates in civil and ecclesiastical law. In 1560, he became a cardinal and took on the role of administrator of the Archdiocese of Milan, as well as serving as the protector of Portugal, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and various religious orders. Despite the considerable possessions and funds associated with these titles, he remained a zealous servant of God.
Charles gained fame as a teacher for bishops and an excellent advisor and diplomat, playing a significant role in concluding the Council of Trent (1545–1563), which was vital for the unity of Catholics. He was ordained as a priest in 1563 and consecrated as the bishop and metropolitan of Milan in 1564.
His leadership style was decisive yet gentle; he was demanding but also just, effectively implementing the reforms established by the council. On September 26, 1569, he survived an assassination attempt that left him wounded. He advocated for the establishment of seminaries and the writing of a catechism for the Church.
St. Charles Borromeo showed a deep commitment to caring for the poor and the sick, founding and constructing hospitals, shelters for the disabled, the elderly, and orphans, as well as schools. During the plague epidemic in 1576–1577, he opened granaries, tended to the sick, distributed the Eucharist (last communion), and led penitential processions barefoot, carrying a cross and wearing a penitential rope around his neck.
He passed away on November 3, 1584, and was canonized on November 1, 1610, by Pope Paul V. His liturgical memorial is celebrated on November 4.
