SAINT FRANCIS XAVIER
Priest
(1506-1552)
St. Francis Xavier, in the dangerous days of the Reformation, was making a name for himself as Professor of Philosophy in the University of Paris. He appeared to have no other aim until encountering St. Ignatius of Loyola. Following the encounter, Francis Xavier experienced a conversion; or metanoia.
After a brief apostolate amongst his countrymen in Rome, Francis Xavier was sent by St. Ignatius to the Indies. For twelve years, Francis Xavier proclaimed the Gospel in Hindostan, Malacca, and Japan. Sometimes, he was thwarted by the jealousy, covetousness, and carelessness of others who should have helped him. However, neither opposition nor difficulties made him slacken his redemptive labors.
The kingdom of China appealed to Francis Xavier's charity; and he was resolved to risk his life to force an entry when God called him to heaven. On December 2, 1552, St. Francis Xavier passed away, like Moses, in sight of the promised land.