Saint Peter Gonzalez
Dominican Priest
(1190-1246)
Peter Gonzales, also known as St. Elmo or St. Telmo, was born to an aristocratic Castilian family. He was educated by his uncle, the Bishop of Astorga. After professing vows, Peter was made a canon of the local cathedral, later joined the Dominican Order, and preached while working as a chaplain at the court of King St. Ferdinand III.
Fr. Peter converted and influenced many of his countrymen. Practicing the norms of piety, he also performed penances and mortifications with joyfulness and faith. He evangelized throughout Spain and along the Mediterranean coast. After laboring for many years, he passed away on Easter Sunday.
St. Peter often vsited sailors aboard their ships to preach the Gospel and pray for their needs. He had the grit and zeal of heroes; and the spirit and fervor of the saints. There is no telling how many he edified, not just his words, but by his example and leadership. St. Peter Gonzales, pray for us!