Episode 1645: St Leopold of Austria

Saint Leopold III, Margrave of Austria, also known as Leopold the Good, was a member of the House of Babenberg and Margrave of Austria from 1095 until his death in 1136. He was a devout Catholic who was known for his piety, charity, and justice. He was canonized by Pope Innocent VIII in 1485 and is considered the patron saint of Austria, Lower Austria, and Vienna.
Early Life
Leopold III, Margrave of Austria as a young man
Leopold was born in 1073 at Babenberg Castle in Gars am Kamp, Austria, to Margrave Leopold II and Ida of Formbach-Ratelnberg. He was raised in the diocese of Passau under the influence of Bishop Altmann, who was a reformer and a close friend of Leopold's father. Leopold was educated at the cathedral school in Passau and received a religious upbringing.
Margrave of Austria
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Leopold III, Margrave of Austria with his wife Agnes of Waiblingen
In 1095, Leopold succeeded his father as Margrave of Austria. He was a skilled ruler who increased the power and prestige of Austria. He also played an important role in the Investiture Controversy, a conflict between the Holy Roman Emperor and the Pope over the investiture of bishops. Leopold supported the Pope and was rewarded with the title of "Prince" by Pope Paschal II in 1106.
Marriage and Family
In 1106, Leopold married Agnes of Waiblingen, the widowed sister of Emperor Henry V. The couple had 18 children, including five sons who would all become Dukes of Austria. Leopold was a devoted husband and father and was known for his love of his family.
Piety and Charity
Leopold III, Margrave of Austria giving alms to the poor
Leopold was a devout Catholic who was known for his piety and charity. He was a generous benefactor of the Church and founded several monasteries and churches. He was also a patron of the arts and sciences.
Leopold was a deeply religious man who was known for his piety. He prayed regularly and attended Mass daily. He also practiced asceticism, which is the voluntary practice of self-denial. For example, he would often fast and abstain from certain pleasures.
Leopold's piety was not just a private matter. He also used his wealth and power to promote the Catholic faith. He founded several monasteries and churches, and he was a generous benefactor of the poor and needy.
Leopold was also known for his charity. He was a generous giver to the poor and needy. He also founded several hospitals and orphanages.

Leopold's charity was not just a matter of giving money. He also gave his time and energy to helping others. He would often visit the sick and the poor, and he would always make time to help those in need.

Examples of Leopold's Piety and Charity

Founded the Monastery of Klosterneuburg, which is one of the most important monasteries in Austria.
Founded the Schottenstift, a Benedictine monastery in Vienna.
Founded the Hospital of St. John in Vienna.
Founded the Orphanage of St. Nicholas in Vienna.
Gave generously to the poor and needy.
Visited the sick and the poor.
Helped those in need.
Leopold's piety and charity were an important part of his life. They inspired others to follow his example, and they helped to make the world a better place.

Charity
Death and Legacy
Saint Leopold of Austria shrine
Leopold died on November 15, 1136, at Klosterneuburg Monastery in Klosterneuburg, Austria. He was buried in the monastery church. He was canonized by Pope Innocent VIII in 1485 and is considered the patron saint of Austria, Lower Austria, and Vienna. He is also the patron saint of the Austrian military.
Feast Day
Leopold's feast day is celebrated on November 15, the anniversary of his death. On this day, Catholics in Austria and around the world celebrate his life and legacy.
Conclusion
Saint Leopold of Austria was a remarkable man who was a devout Catholic, a skilled ruler, and a loving husband and father. He is an example of faith, charity, and justice. His legacy continues to inspire people today.