The Inspiring Missionary Life of Saint Junipero Serra: A True Hero of Faith

The story of Saint Junipero Serra is one of dedication, perseverance, and faith. Born in Spain in 1713, he became known as the “apostle of California” for founding nine missions in the state. Before his work in California, he spent almost 20 years as a missionary in Mexico, where he honed his skills and passion for spreading the faith.

Serra was part of the second wave of evangelization in Mexico in the 18th century, following the Spanish Conquest. He was associated with the College of San Fernando in Mexico City, one of three Apostolic Colleges in Mexico that trained missionaries for mission lands. These colleges played a significant role in shaping Serra’s missionary character and preparing him for his future endeavors.

After arriving in Mexico in 1749, Serra was sent to the Sierra Gorda region to evangelize the Pame Indians, who had resisted missionary efforts for centuries. Despite the challenges, Serra worked tirelessly to teach the Pames skills and trades, and by the end of his tenure, the missions were flourishing.

Serra’s dedication to the faith and his ability to connect with the indigenous people through music, liturgies, and processions left a lasting impact on the communities he served. His final words to the Pames reflected his commitment to sharing the treasure of faith with others.

Despite recent controversies surrounding his legacy, Serra’s story is one of compassion and service. His canonization in 2015 is a testament to his enduring impact on the history of California and the lives of those he touched. The true story of Saint Junipero Serra is one of a humble missionary who dedicated his life to spreading the message of love and faith.