April 19
Leo IX (1002–1054)
Priest
He was born in Alsace.
Biography
Bruno of Egisheim-Dagsburg, was this Alsatian pope of noble family who took the name Leo IX. As a priest he stood out for his virtues to the point of being known as “the good Bruno.” He was chaplain to his cousin Emperor Conrad II, and traveled across half of Europe to vigorously correct the worst abuses, defending papal supremacy, promoting the reform of Cluny and laying the foundations of what would become canon law. This great pope had an exemplary career, defending the purity of faith and customs, the independence of the Church, intervening in world politics to bring peace with a spirit of evangelical goodness that disarmed his own enemies.
Practical advice
Whenever you have the opportunity, pray for the Pope, the bishops and the priests and offer that effort for someone who needs help.