St. John of Capestrano, Franciscan, Patron of the Military Chaplains

St. John of Capestrano was a Franciscan friar, theologian, and renowned preacher who lived from 1386 to 1456. Born in Capestrano, Italy, he studied law and served as a judge before joining the Franciscan Order. As a Franciscan, he became a celebrated orator and helped reform his order. He fought against heresy and participated in the Crusade against the Ottoman Turks, earning him the title of "Patron of the Military Chaplains." St. John of Capestrano is revered for his deep piety, tireless work for the Church, and his defense of the faith against threats both spiritual and physical.