St. Francis Xavier

Francis Xavier, SJ, born Francisco de Jasso y Azpilicueta, is also known by various names in different languages such as Franciscus Xaverius (Latin), Frantzisko Xabierkoa (Basque), François Xavier (French), Francisco Javier (Spanish), and Francisco Xavier (Portuguese). He was born on April 7, 1506, and passed away on December 3, 1552, revered as Saint Francis Xavier, celebrated for his role as a Spanish Catholic missionary and saint, as well as for co-founding the Society of Jesus. Notably, he represented the Portuguese Empire and led the inaugural Christian mission to Japan.

Originating from Xavier, Spain, he was closely associated with Ignatius of Loyola and was among the inaugural seven Jesuits who pledged vows of poverty and chastity at Montmartre, Paris, in 1534. Embarking on an extensive mission across Asia, particularly within the Portuguese Empire, he played a pivotal role in evangelization efforts, notably in early modern India. Francis Xavier was deeply involved in missionary endeavors in Portuguese India and even proposed the establishment of the Goan Inquisition in a letter to the Portuguese King, John III, in 1546.

Recognized as the “Apostle of the Indies,” “Apostle of the Far East,” “Apostle of China,” and “Apostle of Japan,” he earned a reputation as one of the most significant missionaries since Paul the Apostle. Beatified by Pope Paul V in 1619 and later canonized by Pope Gregory XV in 1622, Francis Xavier was also named co-patron of Navarre in 1624. His contributions to foreign missions were further acknowledged when Pope Pius XI, in 1927, declared him co-patron of all foreign missions alongside Thérèse of Lisieux.

Francis Xavier’s birthplace, the Castle of Xavier, held historical significance, later becoming the property of the Society of Jesus. He was born into an influential noble family in the Kingdom of Navarre, on April 7, 1506. His early life was marked by the turmoil of the war initiated by Ferdinand, King of Aragon, and regent of Castile, who invaded Navarre in 1512. Tragically, Francis lost his father at the age of nine, and in 1516, his family suffered further hardship when their lands were confiscated by the Spanish Governor, Cardinal Cisneros. Despite these challenges, Francis Xavier’s legacy endured through his profound contributions to missionary work and his enduring influence on the spread of Christianity in Asia.

In 1525, Francis commenced his studies at the Collège Sainte-Barbe, University of Paris, where he remained for eleven years. Initially, he gained recognition for his athleticism and skill as a high-jumper.

In 1529, Francis shared accommodations with his friend Pierre Favre, and soon after, Ignatius of Loyola joined them as a new roommate. Despite Ignatius being significantly older at 38 years old, he endeavored to convince Pierre to pursue the priesthood, although Francis, harboring ambitions for worldly success, initially scoffed at Ignatius’s attempts to convert students. However, when Pierre left for a family visit, Ignatius seized the opportunity to gradually persuade Francis. While it’s commonly reported that Ignatius posed the question, “What will it profit a man to gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”, some historians, like James Broderick, question this account, suggesting it’s not typical of Ignatius’s approach.

In 1530, Francis attained a Master of Arts degree and subsequently lectured on Aristotelian philosophy at Beauvais College, University of Paris.

In terms of missionary endeavors, Francis, along with Ignatius of Loyola and five other students, met beneath the Church of Saint Denis (now Saint Pierre de Montmartre) in Paris on August 15, 1534. They privately pledged vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience to the Pope, also committing to journey to the Holy Land for the conversion of non-believers. Francis initiated his theological studies in 1534 and received ordination on June 24, 1537.

After extensive discussions, Ignatius formulated the basis for a new religious order, the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), which received papal approval from Pope Paul III in 1540.

In response to a request from King John of Portugal, Francis embarked on a mission to propagate Christianity in the Portuguese colonies in India. Originally, Ignatius designated Nicholas Bobadilla and Simão Rodrigues for the task, but due to Bobadilla’s illness, Francis was reluctantly appointed. Departing from Rome on March 15, 1540, Francis arrived in Lisbon in June of the same year. His subsequent travels led him to Malacca, Amboina, Ternate, Japan, and China, where he dedicated himself to spreading the Christian faith.

Upon reaching Goa, the capital of Portuguese India, Francis focused initially on revitalizing Christianity among the Portuguese settlers, recognizing the need for religious instruction and pastoral care. He prioritized educating children and established Saint Paul’s College, which became a seminal institution for training secular priests in Asia.

In the annals of missionary history, few figures loom as large as Saint Francis Xavier. His tireless efforts to spread Christianity across vast swathes of Asia during the 16th century left an indelible mark on the region, shaping religious landscapes that endure to this day. From the sun-drenched shores of South India to the distant shores of Japan and China, Xavier’s journey was marked by fervent evangelism, unwavering dedication, and profound encounters with diverse cultures.

Xavier’s mission began on the Pearl Fishery Coast of South India, where he encountered the Paravas, a community eager for spiritual guidance. Despite facing resistance from high-caste Brahmins and Muslim authorities, Xavier tirelessly preached the Gospel, baptizing and instructing the faithful. His efforts bore fruit, as evidenced by the construction of numerous churches along the coast and the conversion of many souls.

Venturing further eastward, Xavier embarked on a journey that would take him to the Maluku Islands, Malacca, and eventually, Japan. In each new land, he encountered unique challenges and opportunities, adapting his approach to suit the cultural context. In Japan, he faced both hospitality and hostility, yet his perseverance led to the establishment of Christian communities in Hirado, Yamaguchi, and Bungo.

Xavier’s legacy extends beyond the boundaries of his missionary expeditions. His emphasis on education and the empowerment of local clergy laid the groundwork for sustainable Christian communities in Asia. Despite the challenges of persecution and political upheaval, Xavier’s teachings endured, shaping the spiritual landscape of regions far removed from his native Spain.

Today, the veneration of Saint Francis Xavier continues to inspire pilgrims and believers around the world. From the bustling streets of Goa to the tranquil chapels of Navarra, his memory lives on in the hearts of those who continue to spread the message of love and compassion. As we reflect on his remarkable life and legacy, we are reminded of the enduring power of faith and the boundless potential of the human spirit to transcend barriers and transform lives.