St. John of God

St. John of God was a Portuguese-born Spanish saint known for founding the Brothers Hospitallers, a religious order dedicated to providing care for the poor and sick. After a dramatic conversion, he devoted his life to helping the most vulnerable, especially the mentally ill. He is the patron saint of hospitals, the sick, nurses, and firefighters.

St. John of God was born on March 8, 1495, in Montemor-o-Novo, Portugal. He grew up in a rural environment, but his life took a dramatic turn when he moved to Spain, where he experienced a deep religious conversion. Before his conversion, John of God had lived a tumultuous life, working as a shepherd, soldier, and eventually finding himself in Granada. During this period, he came into contact with a community of people who were poor, sick, and suffering. His heart was moved with compassion for their plight, which led him to devote himself entirely to their care.

In 1539, he founded the Brothers Hospitallers in Granada, a religious order that would go on to establish hospitals for the care of the sick, particularly those with mental illnesses. St. John of God’s dedication to the care of the most marginalized in society was remarkable, as he believed in treating both the body and the soul with equal importance. He focused not only on providing physical care but also on offering spiritual support to the people he served. His organization grew rapidly, with new hospitals opening across Spain and other parts of Europe.

Despite facing hardships, including periods of poverty and the challenges of managing a growing order, St. John of God continued to dedicate his life to caring for the sick. He became known for his humility, his deep devotion to God, and his tireless work for the poor. He died on March 8, 1550, in Granada, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and healthcare that would inspire generations to come. St. John of God was canonized in 1690 by Pope Alexander VIII, and he became the patron saint of hospitals, nurses, and firefighters due to his selfless service in caring for the sick and those in need. His feast day is celebrated on March 8, the anniversary of his death.

Feast Day

8-3-1550

Birth Date

--

Died Date

--1550

Canonised Date

16-10-1690

Granada, Spain

St. John of God, Patron of the poor and sick, Fill our hearts with love and compassion. Help us to serve others with joy And trust in God's mercy. Amen.
ST. JOHN OF GOD

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ST. JOHN OF GOD

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Credits & Acknowledgments

Anudina Visudhar (Malayalam) – Life of Saints for Everyday
by Msgr. Thomas Moothedan, M.A., D.D.
Saint Companions for Each Day
by A. J. M. Mausolfe & J. K. Mausolfe
US Catholic (Faith in Real Life) – Informational articles
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