St. Peter Claver
The Apostle to the Enslaved
"I serve the most forgotten of God's children."
Saint Facts
- Origin:
- Spain
- Gender:
- Male
- Vocation:
- Priest
- Birth:
- 1580
- Feast Day:
- Sep 9
- Death:
- 1654
Saint Details
St. Peter Claver, a Spanish Jesuit priest, was born on June 26, 1580, in Verdú, Spain, to a devoutly Catholic family. He studied at the University of Barcelona before entering the Jesuit novitiate in Tarragona in 1602. During his philosophical studies on the island of Majorca, he was influenced by St. Alphonsus Rodriguez to pursue missionary work in the New World. In 1610, Claver arrived in Cartagena, Colombia, a major port for the slave trade, where he was ordained in 1616. For over three decades, he dedicated himself to ministering to African slaves, providing them with food, medical care, and spiritual guidance. Claver baptized more than 300,000 enslaved individuals and advocated for their humane treatment. His tireless efforts earned him the title Apostle of the Negroes. Claver died on September 8, 1654, in Cartagena. He was canonized in 1888 and is celebrated as the patron saint of African missions, Colombia, and seafarers. His legacy is marked by his unwavering commitment to the welfare and dignity of enslaved people, embodying the principles of Christian love and human rights.
Associated Holy Sites
Santuario de San Pedro Claver
Plaza de San Pedro Claver, Cra. 4 #30-01, El Centro, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Details for: Santuario de San Pedro Claver
The Santuario de San Pedro Claver, located in Cartagena, Colombia, is a significant Catholic pilgrimage site dedicated to Saint Peter Claver, a Jesuit priest known as the Apostle of the Slaves. The sanctuary is built on the site where Saint Peter Claver lived and worked tirelessly to minister to enslaved Africans brought to the Americas during the 17th century. The church houses his remains in a glass coffin beneath the main altar, making it a focal point for pilgrims seeking inspiration from his life of compassion and advocacy for human dignity. The site also includes a museum showcasing artifacts related to his mission and the history of slavery in the region. Pilgrims visit the sanctuary to honor his legacy of service, pray for intercession, and reflect on themes of social justice and equality. The Santuario de San Pedro Claver stands as a testament to his enduring impact and remains a place of spiritual and historical significance.
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