Saint Joseph of Cupertino
Patron of Autism Awareness, Aviators, Pilots, Invoked for Help with Test Taking
Feast Day: September 18th
St. Joseph of Cupertino's story took place long ago during the 17th Century in Italy. His father died while Joseph was very young and Joseph was considerably challenged academically. He was defined a “slow learner” and often ostracized by his fellow students and even his own mother. Because he was not articulate with reasoning and logic, he was deemed a misfit and it was believed there was little hope for Joseph in life. His maladies from an early age included ulcers, probably from constantly worrying that he did not fit in with the other students who were quicker with their learning skills and soon mocked Joseph’s answer to questions when his standard response to questions was to meekly say, “I forgot.” While he was often marginalized and set apart from others, this helped Joseph to become empathetic and understanding. He often welcomed and indeed, appreciated, those less fortunate. Soon he found his way to a Franciscan Order that begrudgingly allowed him to participate. Soon, Joseph started to shine. He is often described as one who could levitate and fly. He rose above his hardships. It seems God had found a path in life for Joseph and is a shining example of the notion the “God raises up the lowly” or “the meek shall inherit the earth.” He is now revered as a patron saint of pilots, flight and levitation. Joseph is also known as a Miracle Worker, who happily looks after students struggling with their studies and test taking skills. His image often exalts the glory of flight, clearly showing we can all rise above our disabilities and meaningfully serve others. © 2017