October 11: Pope Saint John XXIII

October 11: Pope Saint John XXIII

Pope Saint John XXIII

History

Born Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli, Saint John XXIII grew up on a farm in northern Italy.. He joined the Secular Franciscan Order, and eventually worked as secretary to the bishop, seminary teacher and publisher of the diocesan newspaper. During World War I, he worked as a stretcher-bearer for the Italian army. After the war, he was eventually made bishop of Venice. He was elected pope shortly before his 78th birthday, taking the name John. He worked very hard to prevent another world war in 1962, helping resolve what was called the Cuban Missile Crisis. He put more men from different countries into the College of Cardinals so it would be more international. He also opened the Second Vatican Council to encourage the Church to address modern issues while staying true to the Gospel. 

Activity

Celebrate Pope Saint John XXIII's first feast day since his canonization with a special tart that they make in Northern Italy, where he was born. It's called a crostata, and with apples in season, this recipe for Apple Crostata from the Barefoot Contessa is perfect. Don't worry - it's very easy if you have a food processor - still pretty easy if you use a pastry blender. (Video instructions included in the link.)  

Pope Saint John XXIII, pray for us!

More reading for parents:

Vatican website

American Catholic

Catholic Culture