Carlo Borromeo (bishop)

Carlo Borromeo (October 2, 1538 – November 3, 1584) was an Italian cardinal of the Catholic Church who served as Archbishop of Milan from 1564 to 1584. He is venerated as a saint.

Born in Arona, Italy, to the noble Borromeo family, Carlo was destined for a life of privilege. However, he dedicated himself to the Church from a young age. He earned a doctorate in canon and civil law from the University of Pavia in 1559.

In 1560, his maternal uncle, Pope Pius IV, brought him to Rome and made him a cardinal and administrator of the Archdiocese of Milan, even though Carlo was still a layman. He served as papal secretary and played a crucial role in the final sessions of the Council of Trent (1562-1563), contributing significantly to the Counter-Reformation. He also oversaw the publication of the Catechism of the Council of Trent.

Following his brother’s death in 1562, Carlo decided to be ordained a priest. He was consecrated Bishop of Milan in 1564. As Archbishop, he focused on reforming the clergy and religious orders, establishing seminaries, and promoting Catholic education. He implemented the decrees of the Council of Trent with rigor and zeal. He also founded the Oblates of Saint Ambrose, a society of secular priests, to assist him in his pastoral work.

Borromeo was known for his charity and his dedication to the poor and the sick. During the plague of 1576-1578, he remained in Milan, ministering to the afflicted and providing food and support. He faced opposition from some in the city, including members of the clergy and nobility who resisted his reforms. In 1569, he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt.

Carlo Borromeo died in Milan in 1584 at the age of 46. He was canonized by Pope Paul V in 1610. His feast day is celebrated on November 4. He is the patron saint of seminarians, catechists, and those suffering from stomach ailments. He is considered a major figure of the Counter-Reformation and a model bishop.