Have you ever wondered, can younger children and adolescents become Catholic Saints? The answer is, 100% YES! Our Lord works in mysterious ways. Through documented events in history, we know that He often looks to work through the most obscure and humble among us. Check out the following list of just a few Catholic Saints who died by the age 20.
#1. ST. JOAN OF ARC (Age 19)
Born in 1412, was a French peasant girl who claimed divine visions instructing her to support Charles VII in the Hundred Years’ War. Captured by the English, she faced a trial, was convicted of heresy, and burned at the stake in 1431 at the age of 19. Later declared innocent, Joan of Arc was canonized as a Saint by the Catholic Church in 1920.
#2. ST. JACINTA MARTO (Age 9)
Born in 1910, was one of the three shepherd children who witnessed apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Fatima, Portugal, in 1917. Jacinta experienced profound visions and messages. She dedicated herself to prayer and penance, emphasizing the importance of devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Jacinta, died of influenza in 1920 at the age of 9. She was canonized a Saint in 2017.
#3. ST. FRANCISCO MARTO (Age 10)
Born in 1908, was one of the three shepherd children who witnessed apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Fatima, Portugal, in 1917. Francisco also received messages emphasizing prayer, repentance, and devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. He died in 1919 at the age of 10 due to influenza. Francisco was canonized a Saint in 2017.
#4. ST. DOMINIC SAVIO (Age 14)
Born in 1842 in Italy, was a devout Catholic and a student of Saint John Bosco. Known for his extraordinary piety, even as a child, Dominic was committed to living a holy life and encouraging his peers to do the same. He had a deep devotion to the Eucharist and the Virgin Mary. He died at the age of 14 in 1857. Recognizing his exceptional holiness, he was canonized in 1954.
#5. ST. STANISLAUS KOSTKA (Age 18)
Born in 1550 in Poland, was a Jesuit novice known for his deep spirituality and commitment to religious life. He faced family opposition to his vocation but persevered in joining the Jesuits. Stanislaus exhibited profound piety and devotion to the Eucharist. He died at the young age of 18 in 1568, and his sanctity became widely recognized. He was canonized by Pope Benedict XIII in 1726.
