They Called Him The Flying Friar

Short Summary: Joseph of Cupertino, known for his extraordinary levitations during Mass and prayers, was investigated by the Church, with numerous testimonies confirming the miraculous nature of his aerial feats.

Details

Location: Cupertino, Italy

Year: 1628

Prayer: Lord, You helped St. Joseph of Cupertino to become detached from this world, and therefore light in body and soul. Grant me the graces to follow his footsteps, so that I may rise above worldly attachments. Help me to appreciate a penitential way of life, with fasting and renunciations, to loosen my habitual sinfulness. And ultimately, to rise into Your presence for eternity. Amen.

Verse: He said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat, or about your body, what you will wear. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life? If then you are not able to do so small a thing as that, why do you worry about the rest? -Lk 12:22-26

Full Story

Joseph of Cupertino was one of the most unusual friars in history. Known for his frequent levitations, he would sometimes float as high as the ceiling or treetops. In some cases, he remained airborne for extended periods—reportedly, up to several hours. Word quickly spread, naturally drawing large crowds of curious onlookers. However, his fellow friars sought a life of quiet contemplation, and the attention disrupted their community. Original records indicate that they moved the "Flying Friar" to increasingly secluded locations and eventually into isolation to avoid further disturbance. The remarkable nature of these aerial feats drew intense scrutiny, as they were understandably difficult to believe. At the time, levitations were often associated with witchcraft, which also contributed to his superiors' decision to seclude him. The Church took the reports seriously and launched an investigation, led by the Roman Inquisition. Many witnesses gave testimonies, and some of these records remain today. Even Pope Urban VIII once provided a statement, noting that he saw Joseph levitate during their first meeting, rising above his head. The inquiries revealed that Joseph’s levitations typically occurred during Mass or the Divine Office prayers. While over 70 of these episodes were officially recorded, it is believed that many more occurred throughout his life. One notable event took place during a Christmas Eve Mass. While celebrating the service for a group of shepherds, Joseph reportedly flew through the air from the center of the church to the altar, covering a distance of almost 40 feet. He remained suspended for 15 minutes and astonishingly managed to avoid disturbing the numerous lit candles around him or setting his clothes on fire. The shepherds, according to reports, "marveled exceedingly" at the sight. Investigations into Joseph’s life also revealed his extraordinary virtue. Though he was not considered particularly intelligent—referred to as "remarkably unclever"—he led a life of deep prayer and penance. For 35 years, he consumed solid food only twice per week, underscoring his dedication to asceticism. In modern times, historian Carlos Eire of Yale University has examined the historical records related to Joseph’s levitations and verified their authenticity. (And yes, his last name is indeed pronounced 'air'.)

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