St John Cantius (1390-1473) was born in Kety, Poland. He was a bright student and studied at Jagiellonian University where he obtained a Doctor of Philosophy. Following his graduation, he taught at the University while continuing his studies for the Priesthood and was ordained three years later.
St John became Professor of Sacred Scripture at Jagiellonian University and completed a second Doctorate in Theology. He was later appointed Director of their Theology Department. St John told his students, “Fight all error but do it with good humour, patience, kindness, and love. Harshness will damage your own soul and spoil the best cause”.
St John’s writings include hymns as well as scientific papers. He became well known for “his generosity and compassion to the poor”. He would frequently support students from poor families at the University. He lived a frugal life in prayer and penance. St John is known to have made four walking pilgrimages to Rome. His tomb is a popular place of pilgrimage in Poland.
St John’s Feast Day is the 23rd December. He is Patron Saint of Poland and Lithuania.
St John Cantius:
Pray that we will persevere with good humour, patience, kindness and love in times of trouble and conflict.
Glory be to the…
