SAINT FRANCIS OF PAOLA (1416-1507)
April 2
	A witness to miracles from a young age, Francis of Paola later went on to perform many himself. His parents struggled with infertility, so turned to the intercession of St. Francis of Assisi. Their devout prayers bore them a son, whom they named Francis out of gratitude. As an infant, Francis suffered from swollen eyes and was again healed by his namesake. His parents promised him a friary education, where young Francis voluntarily abstained from meat, practiced solitude, and prayed fervently. After a year, he went on a pilgrimage with his parents to Assisi which deepened his devotion. Upon their return, Francis committed to the life of a hermit, first on family property before moving to a remote cave near the sea. A couple others were inspired by his journey and joined him, forming a small hermitage with a chapel. Over several decades, they expanded to a larger church and monastery as more followers joined. They became known as the Minims Friars, minim meaning least to convey their humility. They valued poverty, chastity, obedience, and later added veganism to their vows. Francis is said to have performed many miracles: prophetic speaking, food appearing from nothing, casting out demons, and raising the dead. Despite a life of solitude, he was sought out by many, popes and kings even calling on him for counsel. In his old age, Francis returned to complete solitude for three months, before passing on Good Friday—fitting for a life of perpetual Lent. Francis embodied love for God through radical vocation, giving his all in everything he did. While we may not be as radical in our own lives, the same call of love is extended to us today.
—Meghan McDonagh