Saint John Joseph of the Cross, born on the feast of the Assumption in 1654 on the island of Ischia in the kingdom of Naples, exemplified virtue from an early age. At sixteen, he joined the Franciscan Order of the Strict Observance, also known as the Reform of Saint Peter of Alcantara, in Naples. His piety and dedication were so profound that, merely three years after taking his vows, he was tasked with establishing a new monastery in Piedmont. There, he not only contributed to its physical construction but also instilled a spirit of deep silence and fervor among its inhabitants.

Saint John Joseph experienced an extraordinary moment of ecstasy in the chapel, where he was seen levitating. His journey to priesthood was marked by obedience to his superiors, and he possessed an almost divinely inspired grasp of moral theology, which he nurtured in silence and prayer. The saint was at his mother’s side during her final moments, and after celebrating a Mass for her soul, he witnessed her ascension to heaven.

With the approval of his superiors, he went on to found another convent and formulated a set of rules for the community, which were later ratified by the Holy See. As a master of novices, he was vigilant and kind, maintaining a steady demeanor. His role later expanded when he was appointed Provincial of the Naples Province by Clement XI in the early 18th century. Despite facing numerous challenges, including defamation, Saint John Joseph worked tirelessly to spread the Franciscan Order of the Strict Observance in Italy, emphasizing the dual focus on contemplation and penance inherited from Saint Peter of Alcantara. His efforts were characterized by humility, discipline, and a range of supernatural gifts, including prophecy and the ability to perform miracles.

Saint John Joseph of the Cross passed away in Naples on March 5, 1734, after a lifetime devoted to the service of God. His death was followed by numerous miracles, further attesting to his sanctity. In recognition of his holy life and miraculous deeds, he was canonized by Pope Gregory XVI in 1839.

Photo credit: Fæ via Wikimedia Commons
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17 COMMENTS

  1. I’m really inspired with your writing talents as smartly as with the format on your weblog. Is that this a paid subject or did you customize it yourself? Either way keep up the nice quality writing, it is rare to peer a great blog like this one these days..

  2. Everyday I am inspired by the lives of the Saints. They seems to demonstrate so much humility, vigilance in prayer and obedience to the word of God. Even when tempted they seem to prevail in the word of GOd.

    Blessings abound for your work.

  3. St. John Joseph, you had an early calling and joined the Franciscan order at age sixteen. You earned such a reputation for holiness that you were sent to start a new order of friars before you were even ordained. You composed a set of guidelines for the spiritual life of religious which was approved by the Holy See. You were also elected as a Provincial of your order, during which time you were not above chopping wood or washing dishes. At the time of your holy death, you were known for the gift of prophecy and had performed numerous miracles.

    St. John Joseph, you were confident of your vocation at a young age. Please pray for all young people as they discern their own vocations. You were put in charge of an order early in your calling. Please pray for all young priests who may have heavy responsibilities starting out because of the shortage of ministers. St. John Joseph, you were ascetical in your daily practices and yet gentle in the teaching of novices. Pray that our mortifications and sacrifices will lead to fruitful action and not disdainful aloofness. Lastly, we ask you to pray that all of us may fulfill God’s plans for our lives and become great saints. Amen.

    St. John Joseph of the Cross, pray for us!

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