Biography
St. John of Capistrano was born in Italy in 1385. As a teen, he studied law in Perugia where he received high marks. After graduation, he was made governor of Perugia by King Ladislaus of Naples. When war broke out between Perugia and Sigismondo Malatesta of Rimini, St. John was sent as an ambassador for peace. He was imprisoned; but during this time, he began studying theology. Upon release, St. John of Capistrano gave up politics and entered the Franciscan Order. In 1425, after his ordination, he started preaching and, with his mentor St. Bernardine, gained great renown. Thousands would come to hear him speak and he influenced Christians in Germany, Bohemia, Austria, Hungary, Croatia, and Poland. [1] Written by Sarah Ciotti Reviewed by Fr. Hugh Feiss, OSB, STD [1] Catholicpedia: The Original Catholic Encyclopedia (1917) for iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch. s.v. “St. John of Capistran.” Note: Optional Memorials and Commemorations are optional celebrations and, at present, we do not include content specific to these special days. This “About Today” is provided so that you can celebrate this Saint as you worship Christ. Thank you for praying with us. If you feel called, your Lenten offering helps carry this prayer to more hearts and languages. Contribute now