Born on June 23, 1390, in Kęty, Poland, near Kraków, John Cantius was a figure of profound intellect and piety. He pursued his education at the Kraków Academy, earning a Bachelor’s degree and then a Licentiate. By 1418, he had achieved the title of Doctor of Philosophy. Post-graduation, he dedicated three years to teaching philosophy while preparing for the priesthood.
After his ordination, John became the rector at the school of the Canons Regular of the Most Holy Sepulcher in Miechów. His academic prowess led to an invitation back to Kraków Academy, where he took up a professorship in Sacra Scriptura (Holy Scripture). He later earned a doctorate in theology and eventually directed the theology department, a position he held until his death in 1473. His scholarly contributions included meticulously copying manuscripts of the Holy Scriptures, theological texts, and other academic works.
John was renowned in Kraków for his charitable acts, particularly towards the poor and struggling students. He lived a life of simplicity, often giving away what he did not need to those less fortunate. His dedication to charity extended to making pilgrimages; he journeyed once to Jerusalem and four times to Rome on foot.
His humility and charity were captured by his contemporary, Michael Miechowita, who noted Cantius’s motto: Conturbare cave: non est placare suave, Infamare cave; nam revocare grave. (Beware disturbing: it’s not sweetly pleasing, Beware speaking ill: for taking back words is burdensome.)
John Cantius passed away on December 24, 1473, at the age of 83, while in retirement at his alma mater. His body rests in the Collegiate Church of St. Anne in Kraków, where his tomb continues to attract pilgrims. He is recognized as the patron saint of the diocese of Bielsko-Żywiec since 1992 and is a patron of students, embodying the spirit of learning and compassion.
