Saint Francis Xavier is considered one of the most influential missionaries of Christianity since the Apostles. One of the founding members of the Order of the Society of Jesus, otherwise known as the Jesuits, Saint Francis is believed to have baptized more than 300,000 people while on mission in India, Somalia, Malaysia, Goa, and Japan! In 1552, Saint Francis embarked on a journey to the mainland of China to continue spreading the message of the Gospels. Unfortunately, his plans were ended when he became ill and died at the age of 46.
Saint Francis was known to be a charismatic man who could relate to all people which led to much of his success as a missionary. He had a gift to see each person the same way in which God sees them.
As we journey throughout the Advent season, consider praying for a person who you have trouble understanding. Ask God for the grace to see that person through His eyes. Saint Francis Xavier, pray for the people of the Diocese of Cheyenne – may we see each person we encounter through the eyes of God.
