Early Life and Conversion
St. John of Capistrano was born in 1386 in Capistrano, Italy. He studied law at the University of Perugia and became a respected lawyer and governor of Perugia. However, in 1416, during a period of political turmoil, he was imprisoned. While in captivity, he experienced a profound conversion, realizing the vanity of worldly success. Upon his release, he renounced his legal career and wealth, joining the Franciscan Order under St. Bernardine of Siena.
Franciscan Preacher and Reformer
John embraced the austere life of the Observant Franciscans, a reform branch emphasizing strict adherence to the Rule of St. Francis. He was ordained a priest and quickly became renowned for his powerful preaching. Like his mentor, St. Bernardine, he zealously spread devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus. His fiery sermons, delivered across Italy and throughout Europe, drew immense crowds, leading to many conversions and a renewal of religious fervor.
John also worked tirelessly to reform both clergy and laity. He preached against heresies, including the Hussite heresy in Bohemia, and defended the authority of the Church. His deep knowledge of theology and canon law made him a respected adviser to popes and rulers.
The Warrior of Christ – The Siege of Belgrade (1456)
One of the most dramatic moments in St. John’s life came in 1456 when the Ottoman Turks, under Sultan Mehmed II, threatened Christian Europe by besieging the city of Belgrade (modern-day Serbia). Pope Callixtus III called for a crusade, and despite being nearly seventy years old, John of Capistrano took up the cause.
With no formal military training, he led a force of Christian volunteers alongside the Hungarian general John Hunyadi. Carrying a banner bearing the Holy Name of Jesus, he inspired his troops with prayer, fasting, and exhortations to trust in God. Against all odds, the Christian army achieved a miraculous victory, repelling the Turks and saving Europe from Islamic conquest.
In honor of this victory, Pope Callixtus III instituted the Feast of the Transfiguration as a universal feast of the Church.
Death and Canonization
Shortly after the triumph at Belgrade, John fell ill, likely due to the hardships of the campaign. He died on October 23, 1456, at Ilok (modern-day Croatia), offering his sufferings to God.
He was canonized by Pope Alexander VIII in 1690.
Legacy and Patronage
St. John of Capistrano is the patron saint of military chaplains and jurists. His life exemplifies the unity of faith and action—he was a scholar, preacher, reformer, and warrior for Christ. His feast day is celebrated on October 23rd.
Spiritual Lessons from St. John of Capistrano
- Zeal for the Gospel – He preached tirelessly, bringing souls to Christ.
- Courage in Adversity – He faced persecution, war, and hardship without fear.
- Fidelity to the Church – He defended Catholic doctrine against heresy and error.
- Trust in Divine Providence – His victory at Belgrade was a testament to faith in God’s power.
St. John of Capistrano, pray for us!