Saint John Joseph of The Cross

Biography

Saint John Joseph of the Cross, also known as Carolo Gaetano Calosinto, Giovan Giuseppe della Croce, Giovanni Giuseppe Calosinto of the Cross, and John Joseph Calosinto, was born on 15 August 1654 in Ischia, Naples, Italy. At the age of 16, he joined the Franciscans and quickly became known for his devout and ascetic lifestyle. Early on, John Joseph was inspired by the reform movement of Saint Peter Alcantara, who sought to make the Franciscan Order more devoted to penance and austerity. Recognizing John's holiness and dedication, his superiors appointed him to establish a new friary even before he was ordained. Taking on various roles within the work crew, he humbly served as a hod carrier and later as a mason. After his ordination, John Joseph continued to display exceptional holiness and was appointed as novice master, guardian, and eventually provincial of the Order. However, upon the expiration of his term as provincial, he willingly pursued a life of hearing confessions and practicing mortification, two practices that stood in contrast to the emerging Age of Enlightenment. Saint John Joseph was renowned for his spiritual gifts, which included the abilities of prophecy and healing. He was known to enter into moments of ecstasy and exhibit extraordinary phenomena such as levitation and bilocation. He lived a life of deep prayer and penance, always seeking to draw closer to God. He dedicated himself to a rigorous lifestyle, embracing self-denial and detachment from worldly comforts. Despite the challenges posed by the changing spiritual landscape of his time, Saint John Joseph remained steadfast in his devotion and commitment to his Franciscan vocation. Saint John Joseph of the Cross passed away on 5 March 1734, having lived a life of extraordinary faith and virtue. His exemplary life of self-discipline and holiness impacted many, and he became a source of inspiration for countless individuals seeking to deepen their relationship with God. Recognizing his sanctity and the numerous miracles attributed to his intercession, Saint John Joseph was beatified on 24 May 1789 by Pope Pius VI, and later canonized on 26 May 1839 by Pope Gregory XVI. He was acknowledged as a true model of holiness and is venerated as a patron saint of his birthplace, Ischia, Italy. Saint John Joseph of the Cross continues to inspire and guide believers in their spiritual journey, reminding them of the importance of embracing a life of penance, prayer, and complete reliance on God.