In 1642 at the age of 16, Francis entered the clerical state in his home town of Taranto, Italy. He completed his education for the priesthood in Naples. Francis taught in the Jesuit College of Nobles in Naples and was highly regarded by the students. After four years he joined the Society of Jesus and led the life of a rural missionary working on the outskirts of Naples for the last forty years of his life. He was a powerful and spell-binding preacher. He was surrounded by people wherever he went. They streamed to his confessional. He converted countless sinners. It is said that he brought back to God at least 400 hardened sinners every year. He sought people everywhere, along back streets, country roads, brothels, and prisons. He had the reputation as a wonderworker. Throngs of people gathered round his coffin at his death in 1716.
FEAST DAY: May 11
MEDALS
RESPONSORIAL PSALM
The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
QUIZ
Yesterday’s Answer
Preside at the Eucharist or celebrate the Mass.
Today’s Question
Men and women can be ordained deacons in the Roman Catholic Church.