Catholic Saints

Blessed Junípero Serra (1713–1784), a Spanish Franciscan missionary, is known as the “Apostle of California.” He left behind a prestigious academic career to follow his calling to evangelize Indigenous peoples in the Americas. Despite physical suffering and significant cultural challenges, he founded nine of California’s 21 missions, creating centers of faith and community that laid the foundation for California’s Catholic heritage. His life speaks to the power of resilience, faith, and a belief in the transformative nature of relationships.

Faith in Action Story:

Imagine leaving behind everything familiar—your home, your career, your culture—to follow a calling that promises nothing but hardship. That’s exactly what Junípero Serra did. A gifted theology professor in Mallorca, Spain, Junípero left his comfortable academic life in 1749 to become a missionary in the New World. His journey was anything but easy. After arriving in Mexico, he spent 20 years ministering to Indigenous communities before being tasked with establishing missions in California.

His work in California began with Mission San Diego de Alcalá, the first of nine missions he would found. The challenges were overwhelming: an unfamiliar land, strained relationships with local tribes, and his own chronic health issues, including a leg injury that caused him constant pain. Yet Junípero believed deeply in the transformative power of faith and relationships. He didn’t approach his mission with arrogance but with humility, learning local languages and customs to better serve the people he hoped to evangelize.

One story stands out. On one of his many arduous journeys, Junípero walked miles on an injured leg to advocate for the rights of Indigenous people against military leaders who sought to oppress them. His courage and dedication earned him the respect of both Indigenous leaders and Spanish authorities. His motto, “Always forward, never back,” defined his life of service.

Interactive Exercise:

• Reflection: Think about a time when you faced a challenge that made you question whether you could keep going. What motivated you to persevere? How does Junípero Serra’s life encourage you to keep moving forward?
• Challenge: This week, take one step toward a goal that feels overwhelming. Whether it’s making a difficult phone call or learning a new skill, let Junípero’s motto, “Always forward, never back,” inspire you.

Interesting Notes:

• Junípero Serra traveled over 24,000 miles during his missionary work, often on foot despite his leg injury.
• His missions became the foundation for many of California’s major cities, including San Diego, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.
• Pope Francis canonized him in 2015, recognizing his dedication to missionary work despite controversies surrounding his legacy.
• He was deeply devoted to the Virgin Mary, often attributing his strength and perseverance to her intercession.

Prayer:

Blessed Junípero Serra,
You walked forward in faith, even when the journey was painful.
Teach us to persevere in our challenges with humility and courage.
Help us to see the value in relationships,
And to serve others with love and respect.
May your example inspire us to move forward in faith,
Always trusting in God’s plan.
Through Christ, our Lord. Amen.