St. Cajetan

Feast Day: August 7

“Do not be afraid to entrust yourself to God. He will provide.” – St. Cajetan

Apostle of Divine Providence

St. Cajetan is honored as a reformer, founder, and apostle of Divine Providence, who worked tirelessly to renew the Church by focusing on spiritual renewal, care for the poor, and trust in God’s providence. His feast day, celebrated on August 7, commemorates his example of combining deep prayer with active charity.

A Nobleman Called to Serve God

Cajetan was born in 1480 in Vicenza, Italy, into a noble family. Highly educated, he earned a doctorate in civil and canon law and served as a diplomat for Pope Julius II. Despite his success in Church administration, he felt called to deeper holiness and direct service to the poor.

He was ordained a priest at age 36, choosing a life of simplicity, prayer, and care for the suffering.

Founder of the Theatines

Cajetan saw the need for spiritual reform among the clergy, who often lived comfortable, worldly lives detached from the spiritual needs of their flocks. In 1524, he founded the Congregation of Clerks Regular, later called the Theatines, alongside Gian Pietro Carafa, who would later become Pope Paul IV.

The Theatines focused on renewing the priesthood, living in community, practicing poverty, and dedicating themselves to preaching, the sacraments, and caring for the poor and the sick.

A Life of Trust in Divine Providence

Cajetan refused to allow his community to rely on endowments or financial security. Instead, they depended entirely on Divine Providence, trusting that God would supply their daily needs.

During times of plague, war, and famine, Cajetan personally cared for the sick, visited hospitals, and distributed aid to the poor, embodying Christ’s mercy through concrete action.

Patron of the Unemployed and Job Seekers

St. Cajetan is the patron saint of the unemployed, job seekers, and those seeking financial security, a reflection of his own reliance on God’s providence in all things.

A Witness to Trust, Service, and Spiritual Renewal

St. Cajetan’s life reminds the faithful that true reform begins with personal holiness and complete trust in God. His example teaches that deep prayer and active charity are inseparable in the Christian life.

St. Cajetan, pray for us!