2021-03-08 Mon

John of God was a Portuguese soldier turned health-care worker in Spain. He was born as Joao Duarte Cidade in Montemor-o-Novo, Kingdom of Portugal, the son of Andre Cidade and Teresa Duarte, a once-prominent family that was impoverished but had great religious faith.

His followers later formed the Brothers Hospitallers of Saint John of God, a worldwide Catholic religious institute dedicated to the care of the poor, sick, and those suffering from mental disorders. He has been canonized by the Catholic Church and is considered one of the leading religious figures in the Iberian Peninsula.

John of God died on March 8, 1550, his 55th birthday, in Granada. To honour him various postal stamps were issued around the world. He was canonized by Pope Alexander VIII on October 16, 1690, and later named the patron saint of hospitals and the sick.

The Family of Saint John of God, as those who commit to his vision, are called, is made up of more than 45,000 members, Brothers and Co-workers, and supported by tens of thousands of benefactors and friends who identify with and support the work of the Order for sick and needy people across the world.

To honour him Portugal Postal Department has issued a stamp of value 1.50 Portuguese Escudo.

Image Source: Colnect.com