Though he struggled with learning, his humility and obedience led to his ordination as a Conventual Franciscan priest, and he became famous for ecstasies and levitation in prayer. Students often ask his intercession before exams.
Life
Saint Joseph of Cupertino was born in 1603 to a poor family in Cupertino, in southern Italy. Frail and slow at his studies from childhood, he was turned away by religious orders more than once, but he was finally accepted by the Conventual Franciscans and was ordained a priest in 1628.
In prayer he often fell into deep ecstasy, and many witnesses reported seeing him rise into the air. Because crowds gathered around him, Church authorities investigated him and moved him to various friaries to live in seclusion, which he accepted in obedience. He died in Osimo in 1663 and was canonized in 1767. He is loved as a patron of students and those taking exams.
Spirituality
Saint Joseph of Cupertino's spirituality is simplicity and obedience. By the world's standards he fell short, yet God revealed his love through this little one. He valued humility, prayer and obedience to his superiors more than his astonishing gifts.
Reflection
Saint Joseph struggled with his studies, yet he became a saint beloved by God. Why not pray today for students struggling with exams, and entrust your own shortcomings to the Lord?