Saint Johannes XXIII
Invoked for Inspirations of Hope for Christians and All Societies
Feast Day: June 3rd
Saint Johannes XXIII story took place very recently, not too long ago, like most of our other saint stories. Johannes was born into an Italian peasant family. During World War I he served in the medical corps and also as a Chaplain. After the war ended, Johannes worked in Rome, where he edited “The Society for the Propagation of the Faith.” He became an Archbishop and was known for his skills with diplomacy and helped mediate the liberal and conservative factions of the clergy. In 1958, he was elected Pope and truly was a “Pope for the People,” all people, including the poor, the infirm, and those marginalized and outcast by society. Johannes was a strong opponent and voice against Communism. He was a true Socialist, fighting for a “living wage” and security to benefit all members of society. He was known as one of the most loved Popes of Modern times. Earlier this year, on April 27, 2014, Pope Johannes XXIII became a Saint when he was Canonized by Pope Francis I, along with Saint John Paul II. We were proud to witness the event in Rome. Millions of people flocked to Rome for the Papal Pilgrimage honoring our 2 newest Saints. © 2014