Saint Oswald knew people in high places─his uncle was the archbishop of Canterbury. But even though he received “favors” from his uncle, he served humbly and gained holiness through God’s grace.

A student of Saint John Bosco, Saint Dominic Savio organized a group of students to minister to boys who needed guidance and help. Due to illness, however, Dominic never fulfilled his dream of becoming a priest.

Living right on the edge of some unsettling social and ecclesial changes, Saint Peter Regalado chose to turn to poverty and simplicity to find his path to God. Leading a small band of friars, he strove to live Franciscan poverty and penance more fully.

Saint Stephen of Mar Saba, the nephew of Saint John Damascene, became acquainted with monastic life at the age of 10.

Saint Hugh of Grenoble proves that you can’t run away from your problems—even if you run to a monastery. Saint Hugh tried it, and the Pope called him back to his diocese. Once he settled down, Saint Hugh did great things.

Saint Francis of Paola wanted to live a quiet life of solitude. He managed to do this in a cave near Paola, but soon followers began to gather. He formed them into a community which emphasized pretty severe penance and austerity. Saint Francis also had a public life assisting in the French court.