St Joseph of Cupertino (1603-1663)
Feast Day: 18th September
Patron Saint of those with Learning Disabilities
St Joseph of Cupertino, born in Cupertino in Italy in 1603, was a Franciscan priest most notable for his ability to levitate. As a child he was said to be forgetful, absent minded and easily distracted. However, impressing his superiors with his asceticism, he was eventually admitted to the Conventual Franciscan order and ordained a Catholic priest. During prayer he was seen to rise from the ground and so is often depicted flying.
Not only is he a patron saint of aviators, but also of those with learning disabilities.
St Joseph of Cupertino, help us through your prayer to love our brothers and sisters who have learning disabilities and to be patient with them.