Born in Portugal in 1495 his Baptismal name was Joao and his parents, Andre and Teresa, had fallen on difficult times. 

Still, their faith through this adversity only increased.
At the age of eight, Joao disappeared. It’s unclear whether he ran away or was kidnapped but, in either event, he became destitute and ill. 

A wealthy farmer discovered him, gave him shelter, helped him recover, and then gave him a job as a Shepherd which he kept until he was in his twenties. 

Rejecting the farmer’s offer for his daughter’s hand in marriage, he joined the Army, where he also lost his faith. 

Over the next twenty years, he spent his time going into and out of the military and rarely refusing temptations. 

Eventually landing in a mental institution he had a vision of St. John, who called him to serve the needs of others. He then made a pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe where he had another vision of the Blessed Mother, who called him to the same work. 

Changing his name to John of God, he established a house for those who were sick but too poor to get help, and supported this work, by begging. 

He drew the attention of the Archbishop of Tarifa, who gave him a religious habit. John also began to get financial contributions and attracted many followers. 

His work began to spread and gained momentum. But, after about ten years of service, he died on this day in 1550 at the age of 55. 

Twenty years after his death, his followers became The Brothers Hospitallers of St. John of God. 

St. John of God, please pray for us.