St. Cajetan – Priest and Founder of the Theatines, Patron of Job Seekers

ST. CAJETAN (PRIEST)

St. Cajetan was an Italian priest who founded the Theatines, a religious order dedicated to the reform of the clergy and the spiritual renewal of the Church. Known for his deep devotion to prayer and his care for the poor, he is regarded as a patron saint of job seekers and the unemployed.

St. Cajetan, born Gaetano di Thiene on October 1, 1480, in Thiene, Italy, was a significant figure in the history of the Catholic Church. His early life was marked by a desire to serve God, and after completing his studies in law, he felt called to the priesthood. Cajetan’s deep spirituality and commitment to reform led him to become a key figure in the Catholic Reformation during the Renaissance period.

In 1524, St. Cajetan co-founded the Congregation of Clerics Regular, later known as the Theatines, with the goal of reforming the clergy and promoting a life of prayer, poverty, and service. The Theatines worked to provide better training and formation for priests and to encourage the clergy to live according to the ideals of the Gospel. The order placed a strong emphasis on personal holiness, prayer, and preaching.

St. Cajetan was particularly dedicated to the spiritual renewal of the Church. He believed that the clergy’s commitment to prayer and personal holiness was vital to the Church’s ability to effectively serve the people. The Theatines also worked to address the spiritual needs of the laity, emphasizing the importance of personal devotion and the sacraments.

St. Cajetan was also known for his compassion toward the poor and the sick. His charitable works included founding hospitals and orphanages to care for the most vulnerable in society. He believed that God’s Providence would always provide for those who trusted in Him, and he encouraged others to put their faith in God’s goodness.

During his life, St. Cajetan faced many challenges, including the resistance of some members of the clergy and religious communities to the reform movements he promoted. Nevertheless, his commitment to prayer and service continued to inspire others to follow in his footsteps. He died on August 7, 1547, at the age of 66, leaving behind a legacy of devotion to God and service to others.

St. Cajetan was canonized as a saint by Pope Clement X on May 12, 1671. He is especially revered as the patron saint of job seekers and the unemployed, as he believed that work was an essential part of human dignity and should be treated with respect. His feast day is celebrated on August 7th, the anniversary of his death.

Feast Day

7-8-

Birth Date

1-10-1480

Died Date

7-8-1547

Canonised Date

12-5-1671

Church of San Gaudenzio, Novara, Italy

"St. Cajetan, faithful servant of God, you trusted in divine providence and dedicated your life to the poor and the needy. Please intercede for me and help me in my time of need. May I find strength in your example of humility and generosity. Guide me in my work and in all my endeavors, and may I always place my trust in God’s plan for me. Amen."
ST. CAJETAN (PRIEST)

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ST. CAJETAN (PRIEST)

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