John of Dukla was a 15th-century Franciscan presbyter born in Dukla, Poland. After studying in Kraków, he became a preacher, serving in Lviv and traveling through regions including modern-day Belarus and Moldavia. Despite losing his sight at age 70, he continued to prepare his sermons with assistance. He is recognized as a wonderworker and serves as a patron saint for both Poland and Lithuania. Following his death in Lviv in 1484, he was eventually canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1997.
Life and ministry
A member of the Friars Minor Conventual, John served as a superior in Lviv. His preaching was highly influential, helping to return many people to the faith within his province. Even during his later years of blindness, he remained dedicated to his spiritual duties by preparing messages with the help of an assistant.
Veneration and legacy
Following his death, many miracles were attributed to him, leading to immediate devotion at his tomb. He was declared venerable by Pope Clement XII in 1733. After the evaluation of miracles, he was canonized in 1997 during a large mass in Krosno, Poland.