St. Joseph of Cupertino, Confessor (1603-1663)
St. Joseph of Cupertino, known for his profound humility and extraordinary mystical experiences, was born as Giuseppe Maria Desa in Cupertino, a small town in the Kingdom of Naples (now part of Italy). His life is a striking example of how God exalts the humble, working wonders through those who, in the eyes of the world, seem least likely to achieve greatness.
Early Life and Trials
Joseph was born into poverty on June 17, 1603. His father died before his birth, and his mother struggled to provide for him, often treating him harshly due to their difficult circumstances. Joseph grew up with limited education, described as absent-minded and clumsy, which led to frequent scoldings and ridicule from others. His intellectual limitations and awkwardness made him appear unsuitable for any vocation, yet he demonstrated an early love for prayer and a desire to serve God.
At age 17, Joseph sought entry into religious life but faced many rejections. His lack of education and his poor aptitude for work led several monasteries to refuse him. However, after much perseverance, he was eventually accepted by the Franciscan Conventuals as a lay brother. Later, due to his exemplary conduct, he was ordained a priest, despite the initial doubts about his capabilities.
Mystical Experiences
St. Joseph is most famous for his extraordinary mystical experiences, especially the gift of levitation. He would often fall into ecstasies during prayer or when celebrating the Mass, where he was seen physically lifted into the air, as though drawn toward God. These ecstasies could occur unexpectedly, sometimes even in public, which drew great attention. Witnesses, including fellow friars, local dignitaries, and inquisitors from the Church, confirmed these levitations, and many regarded them as signs of Joseph’s deep union with God.
Despite these divine favors, Joseph remained incredibly humble. He shunned attention, often seeking solitude to avoid drawing undue notice. His mystical experiences, while marvelous, also led to difficulties. The Church, cautious about any claims of miraculous phenomena, subjected him to investigations by the Inquisition. Though found innocent, Joseph was often relocated and lived much of his later life in seclusion.
Virtues and Holiness
St. Joseph of Cupertino’s holiness shone not only through his extraordinary mystical gifts but also in his humility, obedience, and charity. Though mocked for his simplicity, he always responded with patience and meekness. He offered his trials and humiliations as penance, drawing ever closer to God through his suffering. His deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Eucharist fueled his spiritual life, and he constantly sought to conform himself to the will of God.
Known as “the flying saint,” St. Joseph’s levitations are the most well-known aspect of his life, yet his interior life of prayer and trust in God remain his most significant legacy. His ability to transcend the ridicule and trials of his earthly life through unwavering faith and total submission to Divine Providence inspired many during his time and continues to do so today.
Death and Canonization
St. Joseph of Cupertino passed away on September 18, 1663, after a life marked by constant suffering and ecstatic union with God. His reputation for sanctity spread widely after his death, leading to his canonization by Pope Benedict XIV on July 16, 1767.
He is venerated as the patron saint of students, particularly those preparing for exams, because despite his intellectual limitations, he was able to pass the theological examinations required for ordination through divine assistance.
Feast Day and Patronage
The feast day of St. Joseph of Cupertino is celebrated on September 18. He is the patron saint of students, aviators, astronauts, and those facing difficult situations, particularly in academic endeavors.
Key Lessons from St. Joseph’s Life
• Humility and Trust in God: Despite his limitations, Joseph’s trust in God’s providence never wavered, showing how humility can be the path to sanctity.
• Embrace of Suffering: His willingness to endure ridicule and hardships as penance reflects the Christian call to unite suffering with the Passion of Christ.
• Contemplative Mysticism: His life demonstrates the profound union with God that can be achieved through contemplative prayer, even in the midst of the simplest of lives.St. Joseph of Cupertino’s life serves as a powerful reminder that God’s grace works most profoundly in those who humbly submit to His will, trusting Him even in the face of the impossible.