saintcarda quiet companion
Baroque portrait of Francis Xavier
FEAST · DECEMBER 3

FRANCIS XAVIER

Patron of missionaries, navigators, foreign lands, evangelizers, those traveling far from home.

Francis Xavier was born in 1506 in the Kingdom of Navarre. While studying in Paris, he met Ignatius of Loyola and became one of the first companions to form the Society of Jesus. In 1541, he embarked on a missionary journey to the Portuguese East Indies, becoming the first Jesuit missionary to Asia. He spent a decade evangelizing in regions including Goa, the Moluccas, and Japan, tirelessly preaching, baptizing, and establishing Christian communities. He died in 1552 on the island of Shangchuan while attempting to enter China. For Catholics today, Saint Francis Xavier is a model of apostolic zeal and trust in divine providence, inspiring the faithful to share the Gospel with courage and compassion across all cultures. He is the patron saint of missionaries and foreign missions.
A PRAYER TO FRANCIS XAVIER

Heavenly Father, through the intercession of Saint Francis Xavier, we ask for the grace of missionary zeal. Grant us the courage to share your love with those near and far, and to serve as instruments of your peace in the world. Help all who travel for your sake, and inspire many to answer the call to evangelize. We ask this through Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

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