ajetan, also known as Saint Gaetano di Thiene, was an Italian Catholic priest and the founder of the Theatine Order. He was born in Vicenza, Italy, on October 1, 1480, into a noble family. He was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, but he spit it out!
He was ordained priest in 1516. He left the papal court and dedicated himself entirely to the service of the Lord. With his own hands he cared for the sick. Such zeal did he show for the salvation of his fellowmen that he was surnamed the “huntsman for souls.”
St. Cajetan often prayed eight hours daily. While attending the Christmas celebration at St. Mary of the Crib, he is said to have been given the grace of receiving from Mary the Child Jesus into his arms.
In 1522, St. Cajetan co-founded the Congregation of Clerics Regular, commonly known as the Theatine Order, along with three other priests. The order focused on apostolic mission work, pastoral care, and spiritual formation. St. Cajetan and his companions emphasized poverty, simplicity, and zeal for the Gospel in their religious life. One of the friends later became Pope Paul IV.
His life took a characteristic turn when he joined the Oratory of Divine Love in Rome, a group devoted to piety and charity, shortly after his ordination at 36yrs. When he was 42 yrs. old, he founded a hospital for incurables at Venice. At Vicenza, he joined a “disreputable” religious community that consisted only of men of the lowest stations of life—and was censured by his friends, who thought his action was a reflection on his family, but that didn’t stop him. He sought out the sick and poor of the town and served them.
He also founded a bank to help the poor and offer an alternative to usurers (loan sharks). It later became the Bank of Naples. His concern for the unemployed, giving them the necessary financial help in their time of need, made him their patron.
Saint Cajetan died on August 7, 1547, in Naples, Italy, and was canonized by Pope Clement X in 1671. He is revered as the patron saint of the unemployed, job seekers, workers, and bankers. His feast day is celebrated on August 7.
The life and teachings of Saint Cajetan continue to inspire Catholics around the world. His emphasis on faith, charity, and spiritual renewal serve as a reminder of the importance of seeking holiness and serving others in the modern world. Let us remember him this month and try to emulate his goodness.
Louella S. Dias