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Pope St. John XXIII
Lived 1881 - 1963
Christened Angelo Giuseppe RoncalliPope 1958 - 1963
Beatified September 3, 2000 by Pope John Paul II
Canonized April 27, 2014 by Pope Francis
Feast Day: October 22“Human life is sacred - all men must respect that fact. From its very inception it reveals the creating hand of God.”
“We are not here to guard a museum, but to cultivate a flourishing garden of life.”
Pope St. John XXIII was known by many during his pontificate as "the good Pope" as he was a premiere example of the Good Shepherd. He could also be considered a jack of a trades as he served as soldier, military medic, military chaplain, teacher, missionary, bishop, pastor, and spiritual director among other Vatican appointments all prior to his election to the papacy.Founded in a strong daily prayer life, John XXIII prioritized direct pastoral care and ministry. He was known for his many spiritual and corporeal acts of mercy but also his reforms of Canon Law and beginning the Second Vatican Council. His constant aim was renewal of the Church with complete trust in the Lord.
From a young age, John XXIII recorded little spiritual insights. These insights were compiled and published under the title "Journey of a Soul." His episcopal motto: Obedientia et Pax (Obedience and Peace) gives a sense of what one might expect from such a compilation; this motto exhibited his commitment to following God's will to true inner peace throughout his life.
Check out the Vatican's biography of him to get all the particulars of his amazing travels and works.
Ways to Celebrate John XXIII:- Pray a morning offering each day - trust God with whatever work He calls you to that day, that it may be for his glory and your salvation
- Read through the list of the Works of Mercy and pick one to do in John's memory