Story of Saint John of God | Stories of Saints | Episode 162

Summary

Saint John of God, born Joe Duarte Cidade in 1495, transformed from a troubled soldier into a compassionate servant of the poor. After a tumultuous life marked by violence and poor choices, he experienced a profound spiritual awakening. Following a vision of the Infant Jesus, he dedicated himself to helping the sick and mentally ill in Granada, founding a home that evolved into a significant hospital network. Despite facing criticism, his selfless acts, including rescuing patients from a fire, defined his legacy. Canonized for his unwavering commitment to charity, he inspires others to serve with love and urgency.

Takeaways

• 😀 Saint John of God was a 16th-century Spanish soldier who led a tumultuous life before experiencing a radical conversion to help the sick and mentally ill.
• 📅 His feast day is celebrated on March 8th by the Catholic Church, honoring his extraordinary life and contributions.
• 🌍 John of God founded the Brothers Hospitallers in 1572, an order that now operates over 300 hospitals in 53 countries.
• 👶 Born as Joe Duarte Cidade in 1495 in Portugal, he faced early hardship, including poverty and separation from his family.
• ⚔️ After spending 18 years as a soldier under Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, he lived a life of gambling, drinking, and violence.
• 🙏 Following a near-death experience, John vowed to change his life, leading to a pilgrimage and a renewed commitment to faith.
• 📖 After returning to Portugal, he shared his love of reading and religious texts with others as a book peddler.
• 👤 A vision of the infant Jesus led him to adopt the name John of God and to establish a charitable shop in Granada.
• 🔥 He became known for his compassion, famously rescuing patients from a burning hospital and becoming the patron saint of firefighters.
• 💖 John of God died on March 7, 1550, after selflessly jumping into a freezing river to save someone else, illustrating his commitment to charity and faith.

Q & A

Who was Saint John of God?

Saint John of God was a 16th-century Spanish soldier who transformed his life after leaving the military. He became a shepherd and later dedicated himself to caring for the sick and mentally ill, founding the Brothers Hospitallers in 1572.

What significant event led to John of God's radical conversion?

John of God experienced a series of dramatic events during his time as a soldier, including a vow to change his life after a near-death experience when thrown from a horse and a close call when he was wrongly condemned to death.

What was John of God's early life like?

He was born Joe Duarte Cidade in 1495 in Portugal. After running away from home at eight years old, he was adopted by a farmer and worked as a shepherd until joining the army at the age of 27.

What vision did John of God receive, and how did it impact his life?

He was granted a vision of the infant Jesus, who named him John of God and instructed him to move to Granada to set up a shop selling religious books. This vision prompted him to live a life dedicated to serving others.

What actions did John of God take to help the poor and sick?

After being inspired by a sermon on repentance, John of God gave away his possessions and began caring for the poor in Granada, eventually establishing a hospital and shelter for those in need.

How did John of God respond during a fire at the royal hospital?

During the fire, he rushed into the building to rescue patients, demonstrating his selfless commitment to serving others. He sustained injuries but miraculously survived.

What is the significance of John of God being the patron of firefighters?

John of God became the patron of firefighters due to his heroic actions during the fire at the royal hospital, where he risked his life to save others.

What led to the death of John of God?

He died from pneumonia after jumping into a freezing river to save a drowning man. He passed away on March 7, 1550, after being administered last rites by the bishop of Granada.

What does the life of Saint John of God teach us about service and faith?

His life exemplifies the importance of acting out of love and compassion for others, regardless of their circumstances. He encourages us to follow the promptings of the Holy Spirit in serving God.

What ongoing efforts does the organization behind the video undertake?

The organization creates faith-based entertainment focused on the lives of saints, biblical stories, and other religious content. They also seek support through donations and patrons to continue their mission.