St. Paul of the Cross
Italian founder (1694-1775), of Ovada in Liguria; founded the Passionists (Congregation of the Passion of Jesus Christ, 1720) and the Passionist nuns, dedicated to preaching and contemplating the Passion of Christ. Renowned mystic and missionary preacher in central Italy. Canonized 1867 by Pius IX.
Life & Times
Born: 1694 · Died: 1775 · From: Italy.
Patronage
St. Paul of the Cross is invoked as the patron of passionists, missions, devotion to the passion. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
“The Passion of Jesus is the greatest and most overwhelming work of God's love.”— From his Letters — a recurring theme of Passionist spirituality.
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Devotional items honoring St. Paul of the Cross, from our Sancta Lumina collection and beyond.
About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Paul of the Cross, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.