St. Francis of Paola

As a teenager, St. Francis of Paola made a pilgrimage to Rome and Assisi. He became a hermit and began to attract followers. He formed a rule for his many followers and received approval from the church in 1474. His order was called Hermits of St. Francis of Assisi and was later renamed Franciscan Order of Minim Friars. St. Francis was a prophet and miracle worker. He also defended the poor and oppressed, and helped restore peace between France and Spain. He is patron saint of boatmen because he is said to have sailed across water by attaching his cloak to his staff.