St. John Joseph of the Cross was born on the feast day of the Assumption in 1654 on the Island of Ischia, part of the kingdom of Naples, to Joseph Calosirio and Laura Garguilo. He was christened Carlo Gaetano Calosirto and showed a strong religious devotion from childhood, setting up a small altar to Our Blessed Lady. At 16, he became the first Italian member of the strict Alcantarine branch of the Franciscans, founded in Spain by St. Peter of Alcantara in 1524. He adopted the name 'John Joseph of the Cross' on the feast of St. John the Baptist in 1671.
His reputation for holiness led to him being placed in charge of establishing a new friary before his ordination. Known for his severe asceticism, John Joseph fasted continuously, eating only bread and fruit, and limited himself to three hours of sleep each night. He showed deep compassion for the poor, sharing his meals and pocket money with them, and began his day with prayers at 3 am. For over 30 years, he abstained from red meat and wine. He was ordained under obedience in 1677, became novice master by 24, and later served as the guardian of his monastery. In 1702, he was appointed Provincial of the Alcantarine Reform in Italy, working hard to propagate his order despite facing calumnies.
A few years before his death, he requested to be relieved of all offices to focus solely on the ministry of souls. John Joseph was known for his healing touch, ability to read hearts, levitation during ecstasies, bilocation, and multiplying food during famines. He died on March 5, 1734, at the Friary of Santa Lucia del Monte. Pope Gregory XVI canonized him in 1839.
St John Joseph of the Cross, help us to imitate your example of service by cheerfully working to accomplish the responsibilities assigned to us.
Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,
Most High Servant,
Jesus, Mary, Joseph Ministry of Love
(Blessed and Saints and the Nine Choirs of Angels)
Most High Servant,
Jesus, Mary, Joseph Ministry of Love
(Blessed and Saints and the Nine Choirs of Angels)
No comments:
Post a Comment