The Controversy Surrounding the Canonization of Junipero Serra: A Wound Reopened
Title: Controversy Surrounding the Canonization of Junipero Serra as a Saint by Pope Francis
In a historic move, Pope Francis declared Junipero Serra, the Spanish missionary responsible for founding the iconic California missions, a saint during his visit to the United States. This decision has reignited a long-standing debate about Serra’s legacy and the impact of Spanish colonization on Native American communities.
Andrew Galvan, a descendant of the first Indians baptized in the California missions, sees Serra’s canonization as an opportunity to address the wounds inflicted on Native Americans. While some view Serra as a symbol of evangelism and frontier expansion, others, like Valentin Lopez of the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band, condemn him for his role in the brutal treatment of indigenous peoples.
The controversy surrounding Serra’s canonization highlights the complex history of Spanish colonization in California. While some argue that Serra’s mission brought Christianity and civilization to the native population, others point to the high death rates, forced labor, and cultural degradation suffered by indigenous communities.
Despite the conflicting views, the canonization of Serra marks a significant moment for Latinos in the United States, as he becomes the first Hispanic saint to be canonized on American soil. Archbishop Jose Gomez of Los Angeles sees this event as an opportunity to reflect on America’s Hispanic and Catholic heritage, as well as its legacy as a nation of immigrants.
As the debate over Serra’s legacy continues, individuals like Ruben Mendoza, an archaeologist who once despised Spanish colonialism, have found a new perspective on their heritage. Mendoza’s journey of reconciliation with his mixed heritage reflects the broader dialogue surrounding Serra’s canonization and the impact of colonization on modern-day communities.
While the canonization of Junipero Serra has sparked controversy and divided opinions, it also presents an opportunity for healing and reconciliation. As the Catholic Church grapples with the complex legacy of its missionary past, individuals like Andrew Galvan are advocating for a more inclusive and truthful representation of history in the California missions.
The canonization of Junipero Serra by Pope Francis serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Spanish colonization in California and the ongoing efforts to address the wounds of the past. Whether viewed as a saint or a symbol of oppression, Serra’s legacy continues to shape the cultural and historical landscape of the American West.