St. Charles Borromeo was one of the most important figures of the counter-reformation in Italy. He was appointed as cardinal and archbishop of Milan in 1559. A year prior to his appointment, he received a doctorate degree in both civil law and canon law.
He headed the Consulta which made him secretary of state to Pius. The pope relied heavily on St. Charles Borromeo for his role in the third convocation of the Council of Trent. Afterwards, he served in executing decrees and he also brought out the Roman catechism in 1566. When his uncle died, St. Charles Borromeo took part in the conclave that elected Pius V.
St. Charles Borromeo became embroiled in politics and serious administrative problems. However, his heroic behaviour during the plague of 1576-1578 won him much him respect. He was known for giving away his wealth to help the poor and to care for the sick. He is the patron saint of bishops, cardinals, seminarians, and spiritual leaders.
