May 19 + Saint Ivo

Ivo (also known as Yvo, Yves, or Ives) was born in 1253 to a noble family in France. From age 14, he studied civil and canon law, philosophy, and theology. He went on to practice law for many years in both the civil and ecclesiastical courts. He graciously defended the poor without charge, and visited them in prison as they awaited trial. He also worked to settle matters out of court to save litigants money and time. For these good works he became known as the "Advocate of the Poor.”

Ivo also practiced a life of asceticism; he wore a hair shirt under his clothing, fasted regularly, and became a Franciscan Tertiary. These spiritual disciplines aided him in his practice of virtue in the courtroom: he fought the State in court on behalf of the rights of the Church, and became a diocesan judge who was unable to be tempted by bribes.

Ivo eventually resigned from practicing law and joined the priesthood. Following his ordination, he served as a parish priest for eighteen years. Each day before celebrating Mass, and at other times as well, he would prostrate himself before the altar, tearfully offering fervent prayers. Similarly, he would prepare for his sermons on his knees. In his preaching, Ivo habitually included examples drawn from the lives of the saints.

With the funds he earned from his years practicing law, Ivo built a hospital for the poor, and he fed them with the harvests of his land. He became a miracle-worker during his life, feeding hundreds from a single loaf of bread.

On his deathbed, Ivo kept his eyes fixed upon a crucifix placed before a window of his room. Upon hearing a bystander speak of asking for a doctor, Ivo responded that his only doctor was Jesus Christ.

Saint Ivo is the Patron Saint of judges, attorneys, bailiffs, advocates, canon lawyers, orphans and abandoned children.