St. Paul of the Cross, priest, Founder of the Passionists

St. Paul of the Cross (1694-1775) was an Italian Roman Catholic priest who founded the Congregation of the Passion, also known as the Passionists. Born in northern Italy, he experienced a profound religious conversion and dedicated his life to preaching the Passion of Jesus Christ. He established the Passionist order in 1720, which focuses on contemplating and spreading devotion to the Passion. St. Paul of the Cross was known for his austerity, mystic experiences, and compassion for the poor.