SAINT JOSEPH OF CUPERTINO, 1603-1663 A.D.
Feast Day September 18
Patron Saint of aviators, pilots, flying, studying, special education students and teachers, and those suffering from mental illness
As a child, Joseph was known to wander about with his mouth agape, gaining a reputation as absent minded, a slow learner, and quick to anger. He wanted to join the Franciscan order. At first rejected, he was later accepted at the Capuchin monastery as a lay brother. He was rejected again within the year, due to his recurrent visions.
During this time, he grew a deep humility and gentle manner. He studied diligently for the priesthood, eventually becoming a fully-ordained priest. He was known to go into regular ecstatic states in which he would rise off the ground and fly, with claims that there were witnesses for over 70 such events. His reputation grew and it was finally decided that he should be hidden away from the public.
Many people judged Saint Joseph, based on how he looked. They believed he was diminished in his ability to achieve. They did not understand his intellect, his path and passion and that his dedication and perseverance could help him achieve his dreams and overcome obstacles. The message here is that anyone can have a higher purpose and do great things.
If you have a special needs child, I pray that the spirit of Saint Joseph will fly over your house and bring a feathered blessing to shower on your child and surround your family with support and love.
Please enjoy coloring the image in honor of Saint Joseph of Cupertino.
By Sean Wells
Contributing artist
