Saint Peter Claver
Peter Claver (c.1580) was a Spanish priest under the Society of Jesus. He had a strong desire to serve as a
missionary in South America. When finally given the chance to set foot on his mission, the young priest was surprised to see shiploads of African slaves brought at the seaport of Cartagena. He decided to stay at the port and attend to the sick and suffering in the crowd. He would give them food and medicine, and baptize the babies and the dying. For 40 years, he remained steadfast in his duty. Father Claver was always patient and trusted God. Despite the discouragements from slave owners and criticisms from many, he never failed to visit his converts even after they left Cartagena.
In 1650, the priest grew ill. He only stayed in his room and could not hear Mass. Almost everyone forgot about the priest. And when he died on September 8, 1654, it was only then that the people realized they lost a saint. The people gave him the title, the Apostle of the Slaves .
Saint Peter Claver was proclaimed a saint by Pope Leo XIII in 1888.
No comments:
Post a Comment