St. John of the Cross truly set a saintly example of bearing life’s crosses in union with Christ.
In the year 1567, at the age of 25, John was ordained a Carmelite priest. John was also a dedicated reformer, however suffered many consequences such as persecution and incarceration. While in prison, John began to write poetry. It was through poetry that John conveyed his message of uniting all suffering to the Way of the Cross. John died at the age of 49. St. John is an inspiration to people today to persevere in the Faith for uniting one’s cross with the cross of Christ ends not with the Crucifixion but the Resurrection.

“A soul that is immersed in God will find joy in even the heaviest burdens.” – St. John of the Cross

St. John of the Cross, pray for us!

Media, Franciscan. “Saint John of the Cross.” Franciscan Media, 14 Dec. 2024, https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-john-of-the-cross/, accessed November 3rd, 2025.