Franciscan Saint | St. Joseph of Cupertino

St. Joseph of Cupertino was a Conventual Franciscan friar and priest remembered for his deep prayer, humility, obedience, and extraordinary mystical experiences.

Born in Cupertino, Italy, St. Joseph grew up in poverty and struggled with learning from a young age. Despite these challenges, he developed a deep love for prayer and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and was ordained a priest in 1628.

St. Joseph was known for his mystical experiences and frequently entered into contemplative ecstasy. During Mass and prayer, he would sometimes be lifted from the ground and was recorded levitating more than 70 times. On one occasion, while Christmas carols were being sung, he reportedly soared to the high altar and knelt in the air in ecstatic prayer. Many people flocked to him for spiritual guidance and counsel, and he helped countless people deepen their Christian faith.

St. Joseph’s life reminds us that holiness is not about being perfect or gifted according to worldly standards. Rather, it is about trusting God, remaining humble, and faithfully responding to His grace, even in our weaknesses and struggles.

He died on 18 September 1663 and was canonised by Pope Clement XIII in 1767.

Reflection: How can I grow deeper in prayer, like St. Joseph?