Today is the Optional Memorial of St. Cajetan, the Patron Saint of the Unemployed.
Optional Memorial: August 7th
Born: 1840
Died: 1547
Lived: Italy
Occupation: Studied law, but refused posts in government to be ordained at the age of 36.
Best Known For:
St. Cajetan is best known for founding institutions that help the sick and the poor. Among these he started a hospital in Venice for those with incurable illnesses. He later founded a bank to help the poor so that they would not be taken advantage of by those providing illegal loans. This bank later became the Bank of Naples. After his death he became the Patron of the Unemployed.
Interesting Facts:
+Formed the Congregation of Clerks Regular in Rome to revive the spirit of the clergy.
+He would regularly make wagers with the parishioners that he would be able to accomplish a particular charitable work. Instead of money, he would bet prayers. He never lost a bet.
Patron Saint Of: The Unemployed