St. John Joseph of the Cross was born in southern Italy on the feast of the Assumption. He was a young noble, but dressed like a poor man. He did that because he wanted to be as poor as Jesus was.
At the age of sixteen, John Joseph entered the Franciscan Order. He made many sacrifices. He slept only three hours every night and ate very plain food.
Later he became a priest and the Superior of the monastery. Still he always insisted on doing the hardest work. He did the kind of duties that no one would ordinarily like to do.
St. John Joseph had a very loving nature. But he did not try to win love for himself. Instead, he showered all his affection on his brethren and was like a father to all.
This good priest loved God so much that even when he was sick, he kept on working. He dearly loved the Blessed Virgin, too, and tried to bring others to love her.
From this saint let us learn not to be selfish. Let us love everyone alike and show our love in words and deeds.
