Serra, Junipero, Blessed
Franciscan missionary to southwestern North America. Born on 24 November 1713 at Petra, Spanish Majorca as Miguel Jose Serra; died on 28 August 1784 of tuberculosis at Mission San Carlos, Monterey, California. Joined missionary college of San Fernando, Mexico, in 1749 , and became famous as a fervent preacher, making long journeys on foot, though suffering much from lameness. In 1767 he was appointed superior of the Franciscan missions in Lower California, and in 1769 founded the first mission in Upper California. Difficulties with the military governor compelled Serra to appeal to the viceroy, who decided in his favor. In 1778 the faculty of administering Confirmation was granted. His principal writings are the Representacion, drawn up by the order of the viceroy; his Diario, and many letters. Beatified on 25 September 1988 by Pope John Paul II . Feast , 1 July .