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Feast Day: December 4
Death: December 1, 4
Blessed Francis Galvez, also known as Francisco Gálvez Iranzo, was born in Utiel, New Castile, Spain. He joined the Franciscan Friars Minor in 1591, dedicating himself to a life of piety and service to God.
In 1609, Blessed Francis embarked on a missionary journey to the Philippines, where he was stationed in Manila. His devotion and zeal for spreading the Gospel led him to become a missionary to Japan in 1612. However, due to the persecutions faced by Christians in Japan during this time, he was forced to return to Manila in 1614.
Undeterred by the dangers and risks, Blessed Francis was resolved to continue his mission to Japan. In 1618, he decided to disguise himself by dying his skin and assumed a new identity to evade the authorities. His courage and determination were driven by his deep faith and desire to bring the light of Christ to the people of Japan.
For several years, Blessed Francis covertly worked as a missionary in Japan, fearlessly evangelizing and providing spiritual support to the underground Christian community. However, his clandestine efforts were eventually discovered, and he was captured by authorities. Despite facing persecution, imprisonment, and torture, he steadfastly refused to renounce his faith.
Blessed Francis Galvez was martyred on December 4, 1623, in Edo (modern Tokyo), Japan. He was burned to death as a result of his unwavering commitment to Christ and the Gospel.
His feast day is celebrated on December 4, commemorating his martyrdom, as well as on September 10, as one of the 205 Martyrs of Japan, and on May 22, as one of the Franciscan Martyrs of Japan.
Blessed Francis Galvez was formally venerated by the Catholic Church on February 26, 1866, when Pope Blessed Pius IX declared him a martyr. On May 7, 1867, Pope Blessed Pius IX beatified him, recognizing his exemplary life and sacrificial death for the sake of the faith.
His legacy serves as an inspiration to all believers, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their devotion to God, even in the face of immense persecution and adversity. Blessed Francis Galvez stands as a shining example of unwavering faith and dedication to the proclamation of the Gospel, particularly in the challenging context of Japan during the 17th century.