In the heart of Calabria, the figure of St. Francis of Paola continues to radiate a glow of faith and hope, leaving an indelible imprint not only on the spiritual life of the locals, but also on the destiny of thousands of emigrants who, over the centuries, have abandoned their roots in search of opportunities beyond regional borders.

St. Francis of Paola was born in 1416 in the small town of Paola, in the province of Cosenza, and is universally recognized as one of the most venerated saints in the Catholic tradition. Founder of the Order of Minims, centered on poverty and humility, St. Francis of Paola dedicated his life to the service of others, performing miracles and spreading a message imbued with love and compassion.

St. Francis’ deep bond with Calabria is manifested in the spiritual roots he planted in the region. His Shrine in Paola is today a pilgrimage center, attracting the faithful from every corner of the world, in search of spiritual comfort and inspiration in the words and teachings of the Saint.

The influence of St. Francis of Paola goes beyond the borders of Calabria. Over the centuries, thousands of Calabrians have been forced to leave their homeland in search of a better life. Calabrian emigrants, moved by poverty or the search for opportunities, brought with them their faith and devotion to St. Francis of Paola to the places where they settled.

The Calabrian communities abroad have kept alive the traditions and spirituality linked to the Saint. Today, the Sanctuaries dedicated to St. Francis of Paola are present in every corner of the world, becoming not only places of prayer but also meeting points for the communities of Calabrian emigrants. The emigrants, crossing oceans and unknown lands, carried with them in their hearts the cult of St. Francis, seeking in him comfort and protection in the challenges of their new life.

The celebrations in honour of St. Francis have become deeply rooted in the communities of migrants. In Australia, where a growing Italian community, especially Calabrian, has formed, Melbourne is the center of worship, with the annual celebration organized by the Calabria Club Association for over 35 years. Also  in Canada, the United States and South America, committees and associations organize parties and celebrations in honor of St. Francis of Paola, becoming points of reference for the Italian-Calabrian community.

In the United States, cities such as Chicago, New York and San Antonio, taking up the Calabrian tradition, the feast of St. Francis is celebrated annually every April 2nd, bringing together Calabrian, Sicilian and other Italian emigrants in a heartfelt tribute to the Saint.

In Brazil, the spread of the  cult is linked to Portuguese colonization, with cities such as São Francisco de Paula bearing the name of the Saint. In Colombia, Mexico, and Peru,  the cult spread thanks to Calabrian emigrants, becoming an integral part of local celebrations.

In the Philippines, India, Cameroon and Congo, St. Francis of Paola has won over new faithful, thanks to the tireless work of religious communities such as the Minim Fathers, who have built churches and monasteries dedicated to the Calabrian saint.

The cult of St. Francis of Paola has transcended geographical boundaries and cultural barriers, becoming a spiritual bond for Calabrian communities scattered all over the world. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who carry faith and devotion with them, transmitting a lasting connection to their roots and homeland. St. Francis of Paola, with his light of faith, continues to be  a bridge between Calabria and the world, a symbol of unity and hope that spans centuries and continents.