The patron saint of the University Department of Psychology is St. Leopold Bogdan Mandić (1866 - 1942), who was a Franciscan Capuchin and a famous confessor. We celebrate his memorial day on May 12, when we also mark the Day of the University Department of Psychology.
St. Leopold was the 12th child in the family and grew up in a deeply Christian atmosphere during his childhood. He was only 135 cm tall, but from his early days his heart aspired to the noble task of helping poor and unfortunate people. He was ordained a priest in 1890 and spent a large part of his priestly life in Italy, where he was known for his confession - he used to confess for 10 hours a day, and people of different classes and from different parts of Italy came to him. Pope John Paul II. he declared him a saint in 1983.
Life of St. Leopolda was characterized by selfless concern for all people and complete surrender to God's plan. Psychologists have a similar service - to ease hardships and pain, enable people to get to know themselves and others better, and help them lead a more joyful, meaningful and fulfilling life. In this effort, as psychologists, we can always take refuge in the intercession of St. Leopold Bogdan Mandić and be inspired by his generous giving to God and others.