September 18 + Saint Joseph of Cupertino

Joseph was a mystic who was perhaps most famous for levitating during prayer. His father, a poor carpenter, died before his birth and his mother, who was unable to pay the debts, lost her home and gave birth to Joseph in a stable in Cupertino, Italy in 1603.

Joseph began having mystical visions when he was seven, and was often so lost to the world around him that the other children made fun of him giving him the nickname, "open-mouthed" for his gaping manner. He was easily angered and read very poorly, giving others the impression that he was dumb and good for nothing. He was so continually drawn into ecstasy that it was impossible for him to be attentive to the tasks at hand.

He managed to obtain a job taking care of mules in a stable in a Franciscan convent near Cupertino. Upon realizing his holiness and aptitude for penance, humility, and obedience, it was decided that he could begin studying for the priesthood.

Joseph was a very poor student and knew little by way of worldly knowledge and had little capacity to learn, but he was infused with a divine knowledge that made him capable of solving some of the most intricate theological quandaries.

For the last 35 years of his life as a priest, people say they saw him rise from the ground while offering mass or praying. Often he went into ecstasy and would be caught up in talking with God. He fell so deeply in love with God that everything he saw only drew him into a deeper union.

Once as Christmas carols were being sung, he soared to the high altar and knelt in the air, in ecstatic prayer. The people flocked to him in droves seeking help and advice in the confessional, and he assisted many in living a truly devout Christian life. However, this humble man had to endure many severe trials and terrible temptations throughout his life. He fasted and wore iron chains for much of his life.

He was reported to and investigated by the Inquisition and the examiners exonerated him. In the investigation preceding his canonization, over 70 incidents of levitation were recorded. Joseph became so famous for the miracles that he was finally kept hidden from the public, but he was happy for the chance to be alone with his beloved Lord. He died on September 18, 1663 at the age of 60.