Daily Saint

St. John Joseph of the Cross was a humble and obedient priest with a deep interior prayer life. Born Carlo Gaetano Calosirto in 1654 on the island of Ischia, he was raised in a devout Catholic family. From childhood, he showed a fervent devotion to the Eucharist and the Passion of Christ.

At the age of 16, he entered the Order of Friars Minor, adopting the name St. John Joseph of the Cross. He embraced the Franciscan ideals of poverty and simplicity with joy, striving to imitate Christ through an interior life of sacrifice. He was ordained a priest in 1677 and became widely known as a gifted confessor and spiritual guide.

Despite his desire for a quiet monastic life, St. John Joseph was assigned to leadership positions within the Franciscan Order. He served as Guardian of his friary and later as Provincial Minister, responsibilities he accepted out of obedience. In these roles, he worked to renew Franciscan discipline and foster unity, emphasizing humility and fidelity to the Rule of St. Francis.

St. John Joseph reportedly experienced mystical graces, including visions, moments of ecstasy, and the gift of healing, yet he chose to avoid recognition out of humility.

After years of declining health, St. John Joseph of the Cross died peacefully on March 5, 1739. Canonized a century later, he is remembered as a humble servant of God who grew in virtue and sanctity through a profound prayer life and selfless service to others.