Carlo Gaetano Calosinto was born on August 15, 1654 on the island of Ischia off the coast of Naples. From his early childhood, he was the model of virtue, and devoted himself to a life of poverty and fasting.

He entered the Order of Friars Minor in Naples before he turned 16 and assumed the religious name of John Joseph of the Cross. He provided such moral, intellectual, and spiritual instruction that within 3 years he was sent to found a convent for the order at Afila in Piedmont of Northwest Italy, and assisted in the actual construction itself.

Against his will, he was ordained a priest, and quickly rose in rank with an inspired knowledge of moral theology.

With his superior’s permission, he built another convent, and drew up rules for that community, which were confirmed by the Pope.

In 1701 the War of the Spanish Succession broke out and Spain was no longer the predominant European power, losing large parts of Italy under it’s control. Therefore the Italian convents were no longer dependent on Spanish houses but formed into a separate province. John Joseph was appointed as Vicar Provincial as a result, and labored hard in the new formation, suffering much, while becoming the victim of jealousy, gossip, and slander. Still he succeeded in his endeavors.

He exemplified the most sublime virtues, especially humility, and religious discipline.

As the superior, he ordered that no beggar should be dismissed from the convent gate without some form of relief. In times of need he even devoted his own food, clothing, and stay at the convent.

He had a reputation of austerity, and was appointed Master of Novices. He had the gifts of miracles and prophesy, which included the prediction that Mary Frances of the Five Wounds of Jesus would become a Saint to her pregnant mother, before she was born.

At the age of 79, he suffered a stroke and died in his convent in Naples on March 5, 1734.

He is the patron saint of Ischia.

His feast day is March 5.

For God’s Glory.