CAPTION:
The Feast Day of Saint John Joseph of the Cross is on March 5th.
Saint John Joseph of the Cross, also known as Giovanni Giuseppe della Croce, was born in 1654 in Italy. He joined the Discalced Carmelites in Naples at the age of sixteen and was ordained a priest at the age of twenty-two. He was known for his piety, his devotion to the Eucharist, and his willingness to serve others.
Saint John Joseph of the Cross lived a life of poverty and humility, and he was known for his devotion to prayer and penance. He spent many hours each day in prayer and meditation, and he often fasted and did other penitential practices. He was also known for his great love for the poor and the sick, and he worked tirelessly to serve their needs.
In 1722, Saint John Joseph of the Cross was appointed bishop of the diocese of Santa Agata dei Goti, in southern Italy. As bishop, he continued to live a life of poverty and simplicity, and he worked to promote the spiritual and material welfare of his people. He was known for his humility, his kindness, and his love for the poor.
Saint John Joseph of the Cross died on March 5, 1734, and was canonized a saint by Pope Pius IX in 1839. He is the patron saint of the diocese of Santa Agata dei Goti, and is also venerated by the Discalced Carmelites. Saint John Joseph of the Cross is remembered for his deep spirituality, his devotion to prayer and penance, and his love for the poor and the sick.
