St. John of Capistrano

Biography of St. John of Capistrano

St. John of Capistrano (1386-1456) was an Italian Franciscan friar, priest, and missionary who is remembered for his tireless work in spreading the Gospel and his devotion to the Catholic Church. He is considered to be one of the most remarkable figures of the 15th century and has a special devotion in the Catholic Church

John was born in 1386 in the Italian town of Capistrano, from which he takes his name. He received a good education, including a strong background in law and diplomacy. However, from a young age, he felt a calling to religious life and at the age of 25 he joined the Franciscan Order.

After his ordination, John preached throughout Italy and soon became known for his powerful and effective preaching, his deep spirituality and his devotion to the Catholic Church. He is renowned for his work during the Battle of Belgrade in 1456 where he motivated and strengthened the troops to face the Ottoman Empire.

John was also known for his strong commitment to social justice, particularly his work to help the poor, the sick and the marginalized. He worked tirelessly to help the poor and the oppressed and he was seen as a champion of the poor and the oppressed.

In 1456, Pope Callixtus III appointed John as a papal legate to lead a Crusade against the Ottoman Turks, who were threatening Europe. He preached with great success and his effort was known as the “Capistrano Crusade” and it had a great impact on the morale of the troops.

John died while on a preaching mission in 1456, at the age of 70. He was buried in the Franciscan church of San Giovanni in Laterano, in Rome. He was canonized as a saint by Pope Clement XIII in 1767.

The devotion to St. John of Capistrano continues to this day. He is remembered for his powerful preaching, his devotion to the Catholic Church and his tireless work in spreading the Gospel. He is invoked as the patron saint of military chaplains, jurists, and travelers, and his feast day is celebrated on October 23rd.

Prayers to St. John of Capistrano

O St. John of Capistrano, patron saint of soldiers and travelers, we ask for your intercession and guidance as we embark on our journey. Protect us from harm, and guide us to our destination safely. We also ask for your help in overcoming any obstacles or challenges that we may encounter along the way. Amen.”

“Dear St. John of Capistrano, you are known for your devotion to God and your strength in the face of adversity. We ask for your intercession as we face our own struggles and difficulties. Grant us the courage and determination to overcome any obstacles that may stand in our way, and guide us towards a deeper relationship with God. Amen.

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Saints Similar to St. John of Capistrano

You may also be interested in reading the Biography of St. John the Baptist. Both saints are known for their passionate preaching and their roles as itinerant preachers. St. John of Capistrano was a Franciscan friar, and St. John the Baptist was a prophet in the New Testament. Next up: Biography of St. John of God

 

Also check out our handmade St. John of Capistrano Medal and St. John of Capistrano Rosary and St. John of Capistrano Rosary Bracelet.