As we commemorate the feast day of Saint John of God, Catholics around the world reflect on the life and legacy of this remarkable saint. Known for his boundless compassion and tireless service to the poor and sick, Saint John of God continues to inspire us with his selfless devotion to those in need.

Saint John of God’s life exemplifies the Christian virtues of love, mercy and charity. Born into poverty and hardship, he experienced profound conversion after a life-changing encounter with a sermon on divine mercy. Inspired by his newfound faith, Saint John of God dedicated himself to serving the marginalised and vulnerable, founding the Order of Hospitallers to provide care and shelter to the sick and destitute.

On his feast day, we are reminded of the transformative power of compassion and the profound impact that one individual can have on the lives of others. Saint John of God’s legacy serves as a beacon of hope for all who strive to follow in his footsteps, offering comfort to the afflicted and healing to the brokenhearted.

As Catholics, we are called to emulate Saint John of God’s example of selfless love and service in our own lives. Whether through acts of kindness, charitable giving or volunteer work, we can honour his memory by reaching out to those in need and sharing God’s love with the world.

On this feast day of Saint John of God, let us give thanks for his witness of faith and charity, and let us pray for the grace to follow his example in our own lives. May his intercession inspire us to be instruments of God’s mercy and compassion, bringing hope and healing to all those we encounter.

Saint John of God, pray for us.

Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. – James 5:14