Why St. John Bosco is patron saint of entertainers
Magicians, acrobats and comedians can all find inspiration in the life of St. John Bosco.
The entertainment industry in the modern world is often looked down upon, especially when the shows produced are contrary to Christian moral values. However, it doesn’t mean that the entire industry should be thrown out or is incompatible with Christianity.
In fact, St. John Bosco would argue that entertainment has the potential to open people’s hearts to the Gospel message.
John Bosco perfected his performances and was extremely talented in nearly every form of entertainment.
He became a practiced acrobat, danced, turned somersaults, walked on his hands, his feet in the air, multiplied eggs, drew nuts from the noses of the spectators, and transferred watches to neighboring pockets, with other tricks, all enthusiastically applauded by his rural admirers.
Entertainment has a profound ability to lower our defenses and open us up to the joy the Gospel can give. While many use entertainment for questionable ends, it can still be used as an effective means of evangelization.
