Joseph of Cupertino was a 17th-century Italian Conventual Franciscan friar and mystic. Born in Copertino, he faced significant academic difficulties during his religious training, which led to several providential circumstances during his examinations for the priesthood. He is widely recognized for his intense spiritual ecstasies and reported instances of levitation. Because of his unique experiences and his academic struggles, he is venerated as a saint and is considered a patron for students, travelers, and those with learning disabilities.
Life and service
After being initially rejected by the Franciscans due to his limited education, Joseph served as a stable hand before being admitted to the order in 1625. His path to the priesthood involved unusual coincidences during his exams, as he could only discuss a single verse of scripture. Later in life, his reported ability to levitate during prayer led to scrutiny from church authorities, resulting in periods of confinement and supervision by the Inquisition.
Veneration and legacy
He was canonized by Pope Clement XIII in 1767. Due to his reported aerial feats, he is often called a wonderworker and serves as a patron for pilots and those traveling by air. He is also the patron saint of students and individuals facing learning difficulties. His life and the accounts of his mystical experiences have been documented extensively through various hagiographies and historical inquests.