Saint John Grande

Biography

Saint John Grande, also known as John the Great Sinner, Juan Grande Pecador, Juan Grande Román, Juan Grande, and Juan Pecador, was born on 6 March 1546 in Carmona, Andalusia, Spain. He was raised in a devout Christian family and showed early signs of piety, serving as a choir boy from the age of 7 to 12. At the age of 15, John was apprenticed in the linen business in Seville, Spain. After gaining experience, he returned to his hometown and established his own linen shop. However, at the young age of 19, he suddenly left behind his thriving business, gave away all his possessions, and became a hermit at Marcena. It was during this time that John began referring to himself as Juan Grande Pecador, or John the Great Sinner, reflecting his profound humility and recognition of his own faults and need for God's mercy. He dedicated himself to a life of prayer, penance, and austere asceticism. Moved by a strong desire to serve God and others, John actively engaged in charitable works. He worked in prisons and hospitals in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, tending to the physical and spiritual needs of the inmates and patients. With the support of a wealthy couple in the region, he founded the Hospital de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria (Our Lady of Candlemas) in Jerez. Seeking to ensure the long-term sustainability and spiritual orientation of the hospital, John affiliated it with the Order of Hospitallers. He entrusted its management to Saint John of God, while he himself joined the Order in Granada, Spain, in 1574. This decision allowed him to deepen his spiritual life and continue his mission of serving the most vulnerable members of society. During an outbreak of the plague in 1574, John organized a group of volunteers to provide care for the victims. Through their dedication, compassion, and supernatural assistance, they achieved remarkable success in alleviating suffering and saving lives. Recognizing John's unique gifts and his ability to effect positive change, the Archbishop of Seville requested his assistance in reforming the healthcare system of the diocese. John responded wholeheartedly to this call and implemented significant improvements in efficiency and services, ensuring that those in need received appropriate care. John Grande was also endowed with mystical gifts and prophetic abilities. He accurately predicted the fall of the Spanish Armada, a significant event in the history of Spain and Europe. Throughout his life, John fearlessly challenged those in authority and criticized those who neglected their responsibilities to the poor and suffering. He advocated for justice and encouraged the wealthy to use their resources to alleviate the plight of the less fortunate. To this end, he arranged anonymous dowries for poor girls, enabling them to marry rather than face a life of destitution. John dedicated himself to feeding and clothing prisoners and refugees, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the principles of mercy and compassion. Tragically, he died while tirelessly tending to plague victims in Jerez on 3 June 1600, ultimately succumbing to the disease he selflessly confronted. Saint John Grande's legacy and exemplary life of charity and service have left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church. He was venerated on 3 May 1775 by Pope Pius VI, beatified on 13 November 1853 by Pope Blessed Pius IX, and canonized on 2 June 1996 by Pope John Paul II. Today, Saint John Grande is honored as the patron saint of the diocese of Jerez de la Frontera, Spain. Relics of this remarkable saint can be found at the diocesan Shrine of Saint John Grande, located within the Saint John Grande Hospital in Jerez, a testament to his enduring impact on the lives of those in need.