St. Joseph of Cupertino – The Flying Saint and Patron of Students

ST. JOSEPH CUPERTINO

St. Joseph of Cupertino was an Italian Franciscan friar known for his humility, miraculous levitations, and deep spirituality. Though he struggled with academics, his devotion and simplicity led him to the priesthood. He is the patron saint of students and aviators, remembered for his intense mystical experiences and miraculous ability to float in ecstasy during prayer.

St. Joseph of Cupertino was born on June 17, 1603, in the small Italian village of Cupertino in the Kingdom of Naples. His early life was marked by extreme poverty and a lack of basic resources. His father died before he was born, and his mother struggled to support him, often facing ridicule and hardship. Joseph was considered a slow learner and struggled academically, which made his path to priesthood seem nearly impossible.

Despite these difficulties, Joseph exhibited deep devotion to God and a powerful inner spirituality from a young age. He also experienced ecstatic visions and a strong desire for religious life. After being rejected by several orders, he was eventually accepted as a lay brother by the Conventual Franciscans. However, after witnessing his humility, obedience, and mystical experiences, they allowed him to study for the priesthood. Through what many believe to be divine intervention, he passed his exams—often being asked questions on the few topics he actually knew—leading to his ordination in 1628.

Joseph soon gained widespread attention not for his intellect, but for the miraculous occurrences that surrounded him. During Mass and times of prayer, he frequently entered ecstatic states and was seen levitating off the ground. These mystical events were so common that they began to disrupt public gatherings. Though initially welcomed, his fame eventually drew suspicion and envy, leading to multiple investigations by the Church. He was transferred repeatedly and kept in seclusion for much of his life to avoid the distractions and misunderstandings his miracles caused.

Despite his reclusive and humble existence, Joseph remained obedient and joyful, accepting suffering and hardship as divine will. His life was centered entirely on union with God through prayer, poverty, and simplicity. He often went into ecstasy at the mention of Jesus, Mary, or even sacred scripture, and required supervision during liturgies because he might spontaneously levitate or fall into a trance.

Joseph died on September 18, 1663, in Osimo, Italy, where his relics are still venerated. He was beatified in 1753 by Pope Benedict XIV and canonized in 1767 by Pope Clement XIII. Over time, he became known as the patron saint of students, test takers, and those who struggle academically due to the miraculous nature of how he passed his examinations and his own intellectual difficulties.

St. Joseph’s story is one of divine grace transforming human weakness. Rather than worldly success or intellectual brilliance, his sanctity came through humility, trust in God, and extraordinary spiritual gifts. He continues to inspire students, educators, and spiritual seekers worldwide.

Feast Day

18-9-

Birth Date

17-6-1603

Died Date

18-9-1663

Canonised Date

16-7-1767

Osimo, Italy

Saint Joseph of Cupertino, humble servant of God, pray for us that we may grow in faith, wisdom, and devotion. Help us to trust in God’s plan and to find grace in times of struggle. Intercede for us, especially in our moments of need, and guide us with your loving example. Amen.
ST. JOSEPH CUPERTINO

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ST. JOSEPH CUPERTINO

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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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