John of God

John Cidade, better known as John of God, was born in 1495 in Montemor-o-Novo, Portugal. After a tumultuous youth as a soldier and shepherd, he experienced a profound conversion at the age of 40 in Granada, Spain. Deeply moved by a sermon from John of Ávila, he renounced his past life and dedicated himself entirely to the poor, the sick, and those suffering from mental disorders, who were often neglected and mistreated at the time. He began by founding a modest hospital in Granada, personally caring for the most destitute and collecting funds for them, often by begging. His revolutionary approach, based on dignity and compassion, quickly attracted followers. His methods were ahead of their time, advocating holistic and humane care. He died in 1550 in Granada. After his death, his disciples continued his work, forming the Order of Hospitallers of Saint John of God, a worldwide Catholic religious institution dedicated to healthcare, which continues to this day. He was canonized in 1690 and is the patron saint of the sick, nurses, hospitals, and firefighters.