Happy anniversary to Blessed Karl of Austria and the Servant of God Zita
Go no further than this man to learn about marriage! đź’Ť
Most Saints and Blesseds are celebrated on the day of their death — but Blessed Karl of Austria’s feast day falls on his wedding day, a reminder that his vocation as a husband and father defined his holy path to God.
On his wedding day to Princess Zita of Bourbon-Parma, he told her:
“Now we must help each other attain heaven.”
That’s the Catholic vision of marriage!
It's not just romance or partnership, but a journey toward holiness.
For Karl and Zita, marriage meant daily Mass, prayer, and trust in Divine Providence, even through exile to Madeira, poverty, and suffering.
His leadership as emperor flowed from this same love of self-giving, mercy, and rooted in service.
Blessed Karl of Austria (1887–1922), the last Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary, was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 2004 for his heroic virtue — especially his faithfulness in marriage, family life, and leadership during war.
Even on his deathbed, Karl prayed for each of his children by name, saying:
“Look after my little ones. Let them die rather than commit a mortal sin — keep them in body and soul.”
May we too have same courage and perseverance to love as Blessed Karl did.
Blessed Karl of Austria & Servant of God Zita, pray for us!
