Friends of the Rosary,

Today, the faithful celebrate the Memorial of St. Junípero Serra (1713-1784), the first Hispanic saint of the U.S.

A native of Majorca, Spanish Franciscan friar Junípero Serra spread the Church and the Gospel along the Pacific Coast of the United States, founding 21 missions and converting thousands of Native Americans in the eighteenth century.

The first mission founded was San Diego (1769). Other missions followed: Monterey/Carmel (1770); San Antonio and San Gabriel (1771); San Luis Obispo (1772); San Francisco and San Juan Capistrano (1776); Santa Clara (1777); San Buenaventura (1782). Twelve more were founded after his death.

Junípero vigorously protected the Native Americans against Spain’s colonial and military interests.

He brought them not only the gift of faith but also a decent standard of living, winning their love.

And because the Native Americans were living a nonhuman life, the friars were made their legal guardians.

Fray Junípero Serra baptized over 6,000 people and confirmed 5,000.

The “Apostle to California” died in Monterey at his favorite mission in 1784 and was canonized by Pope Francis on September 23, 2015.

July is traditionally associated with the Precious Blood of Our Lord.

Today, it is customary in some places to celebrate the votive Mass of the Precious Blood.

Ave Maria!
Jesus, I Trust In You!

Come, Holy Spirit, come!
To Jesus through Mary!

Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.
Please give us the grace to respond with joy!

+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New York

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