Patronus studentium. (English version)

After few weeks I finally decided to publish a translated note about one of my fauvorite saints - st. Joseph of Cupertino. He helped me numerous times during the last academic year.

Giuseppe Maria Desa was born on 17 June 1603. He grew up in a poor family. Since the beginning of life he encountered difficulties. A tumor appeared on his back, from which he suffered 5 years. He was healed with the miraculous oil from the sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Gratitude in Galatone. In the age of 17, he joined the Capuchin Order, because the Franciscans did not want him. He was not able to learn and in addition he day-dreamed, so they also decided to expel him. Eventually, in the year 1625, He joined the Conventual Franciscans. There, his superiors reckoned, that Joseph made strides and, taking into consideration his mental abilities, He might become a priest. With the great aid of God, He managed to pass all the exams and on 4 March 1628 was ordained priest. Since then, his life was filled with miracles. Above all, Joseph frequently fell into ecstasies, which were accompanied by levitation. The Church, wanting to investigate the case, three times summoned Him to the inquisitional court and three times exculpated him. Apart from, the brother-donkey, as He used to call himself due to difficulties in learning, made many miracles. His unusual acts attracted faithful, also these from the far-flung regions. He was visited also by hierarchs and monarchs. He died in Osimo on 18 September 1663.

Joseph of Cupertino is an extraordinary saint. Despite enormous hardships, he managed to launch an assault against the Heaven, where now he intercedes for us. He sees the students, who toil, trying to learn well for the exams and wants to help them. He took pains himself to fulfil his dream and become priest. The power of his espousal is truly immense, in my opinion infallible, and I would like as many people as possible, not only these, who study, to discover it. God gives us in His person a great aid; it is our decision, if we accept it, or not.