February 4
José de Leonisa (1556–1612)
Franciscan religious missionary
Practical advice
Accompany your words of faith today with a work of mercy that costs you time or comfort.
Biography
Italian Capuchin, José de Leonisa was sent to Constantinople to care for captive Christians. His desire to announce the Gospel to the sultan cost him prison and cruel torments, after which he was expelled. Back in Italy, he toured towns and mountains on foot, preaching, reconciling enmities and helping the poor, sick and imprisoned. He lived with great austerity and endured a painful illness. His missionary zeal did not stop at words: he united the proclamation of Christ with concrete works of mercy.
Example of
Missionary zealEvangelizationConsecrated life