Pope Francis to Canonize Controversial Missionary Junipero Serra in America

Pope Francis to Canonize Controversial Missionary on First U.S. Visit

Pope Francis is set to make a saint out of Junipero Serra, an 18th-century missionary who brought Christianity to California, during his first trip to America. More than 20,000 people are expected to gather at a Washington basilica to witness the canonization of Serra, who is hailed as a self-sacrificing evangelist.

However, not everyone is celebrating this decision. Some Native Americans view Serra as a controversial figure who established a mission system that led to brutality and the deaths of thousands. Valentin Lopez, chairman of the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band, expressed outrage at the canonization, stating that Serra’s actions were far from saintly.

Despite the controversy, Pope Francis fast-tracked Serra’s canonization based on one miracle attributed to him. Robert Senkewicz, a history professor, believes that the pope’s support for Serra may stem from his Latin American background, where missionaries were seen as protectors.

The debate surrounding Serra’s canonization continues, with Lopez leading efforts to have it rescinded. While the canonization Mass will proceed as planned, Lopez remains determined to challenge the decision and seek recognition of the harm caused by Serra’s actions.

As Pope Francis prepares to honor Junipero Serra, the controversy surrounding the missionary’s legacy highlights the complex history of colonization and its impact on indigenous communities.