Bonaventure became a Franciscan at the age of 22 and soon became a beloved professor at the University of Paris. His piety and administrative abilities led his being asked to take on leadership of the Franciscans in 1257. For seventeen years, Bonaventure worked to defend the mendicant (begging) religious orders and strengthen Franciscan spirituality. He became known as the Seraphic Doctor because of his compelling love for Jesus Christ.Feast Day: July 15Patronage: Bowel Disorders