St. John of Capistrano

Saint John of Capistrano was born in 1385 at Capistrano, Italy, the son of a former German knight who had settled in that city. His early life was marked by academic excellence and a promising career in law, but God had other plans for this remarkable man. John's journey from successful lawyer to Franciscan preacher and defender of Christendom would become one of the most extraordinary stories of conversion and service in the history of the Church.

John studied law at the prestigious University of Perugia and quickly established himself as a successful lawyer, practicing in the courts of Naples. His legal skills and administrative abilities were so impressive that King Ladislas of Naples appointed him governor of Perugia, a position of great responsibility and honor. However, during a war with a neighboring town, John was betrayed and imprisoned, an experience that would prove to be a turning point in his life.

Upon his release from prison, John experienced a profound conversion. In 1416, at the age of thirty-one, he entered the Franciscan community at Perugia, leaving behind his successful career and worldly ambitions. This dramatic change of life demonstrates the power of God's grace to transform even the most accomplished individuals and redirect their talents for the service of the Kingdom.

John and St. James of the March were fellow students under the guidance of St. Bernardine of Siena, one of the most important Franciscan reformers of the time. Under Bernardine's influence, John was inspired to institute the devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus and His Mother, a devotion that would become central to Franciscan spirituality and spread throughout Europe.

John began his brilliant preaching apostolate as a deacon in 1420, and after his ordination, he traveled extensively throughout Italy, Germany, Bohemia, Austria, Hungary, Poland, and Russia. His preaching focused on penance and moral reform, and he established numerous communities of Franciscan renewal. His ability to communicate effectively across different cultures and languages made him one of the most successful preachers of his time.

Liturgical Celebration

The feast of St. John of Capistrano is celebrated on October 23rd, commemorating his life of preaching, reform, and defense of the faith. This date serves as a reminder of the importance of courageous witness to Christ and the defense of Christian values in the face of opposition.

Historical Context

John's feast day is particularly significant in the context of the fifteenth century, a time when the Church was facing both internal challenges and external threats from the Ottoman Empire. His victory at Belgrade in 1456 was a crucial moment in European history, helping to preserve Christian civilization from Turkish conquest. His feast day reminds us of the importance of defending our faith and values when they are under attack.

Modern Relevance

In today's world, St. John's feast day serves as a reminder of the importance of courageous witness to Christ and the defense of Christian values. It's a day to reflect on how we can use our talents and abilities in the service of the Gospel, and to remember that it's never too late to respond to God's call. His example encourages us to be bold in our faith and to stand up for what is right, even when it requires personal sacrifice.