John Joseph of the Cross

Saint John Joseph of the Cross was born as Carlo Gaetano Calosirto on August 15, 1654, on the island of Ischia off the coast of Naples. Drawn early to a life of poverty and prayer, he entered the Order of Friars Minor in Naples before the age of sixteen and took the name John Joseph of the Cross, becoming the first Italian to embrace the reform inspired by Saint Peter of Alcantara. Sent in 1674 to help found a new convent at Afila in Piedmont, he even labored with his own hands in its construction. Though ordained a priest against his personal wishes, he lived with striking humility, performing the lowliest tasks even when appointed superior. As Vicar Provincial of the reform in Italy, he was known for austere holiness, compassion for the poor, and a reputation for miracles and prophecy—yet he tried to hide extraordinary favors so God alone would be praised. He died on March 5, 1739, and is venerated especially as patron of Ischia and Totari. His feast day is March 5.