According to Pope Pius XI who canonized him, St. John Bosco’s life of 73 years included so many miracles that “the supernatural became almost natural.” Indeed, Don Bosco was given astonishing powers by God, Whom he served so humbly and so faithfully. Just like St. Francis de Sales, St. John Bosco was hot-tempered by nature, but he became extraordinarily kind and patient by grace. He was the living embodiment of St. Francis de Sales’ motto: “Suaviter et fortiter” - gently and firmly. Even the anti-Catholic Masonic politicians visited his schools to learn how he could be so successful in teaching the roughest and rudest class of youngsters. His formula was simple: practice reason, religion, and kindness. This was the “method” he gave to his students, many of whom became priests and teachers. And they in turn taught their students his three-fold plan for success and sanctity: be cheerful, work hard, obey the rules. Simple — but not easy for a weak and corrupt human nature. For help, St. John Bosco always turned to his three great Benefactors: first of all, to his beloved Lord and Savior in the Blessed Sacrament; then to Mary, Help of Christians; and to his Guardian Angel (who manifested his watchful protection in some remarkable ways).

[Originally published in the Immaculate Conception Church bulletin on January 28th 2024.]