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Feast Day: July 21
Blessed Juan de las Varillas, also known as Juan de las Varillas, was a Mercedarian friar who played a significant role as a missionary, counselor, and chaplain during the expedition to Honduras in 1524, led by the renowned Spanish conquistador, Hernán Cortés. Although Juan faced challenges in establishing a firm foundation for the Mercedarians in the Americas, he made remarkable achievements in spreading Christianity among the Aztecs.
Born in Spain, the exact details and date of Juan de las Varillas' birth remain unknown. However, his deep devotion to his faith led him to join the Mercedarian order, an order known for its dedication to the redemption of captives. As a Mercedarian friar, Juan committed himself to the service of God and the liberation of enslaved Christians.
In 1524, Juan embarked on an arduous journey alongside Hernán Cortés, who sought to expand the Spanish territories in the New World. During this expedition to Honduras, Juan served as a trusted counselor and chaplain, providing spiritual guidance and support to Cortés and his expedition members. His role as a religious advisor to the conquistador proved invaluable, offering solace and guidance in the face of countless hardships and dangers.
Although Juan de las Varillas did not achieve a substantial foothold for the Mercedarians in the Americas, his missionary efforts and influence were prodigious. He tirelessly preached the gospel, dedicating himself to the conversion of Aztec indigenous peoples to Christianity. Through his efforts, a considerable number of Aztecs embraced the Christian faith, finding spiritual redemption and a new way of life.
Blessed Juan de las Varillas' commitment to the Aztec people exemplified values of love, compassion, and understanding. He treated the indigenous communities with respect, recognizing their unique traditions and customs while integrating Christian teachings. His approach fostered an environment of dialogue and harmony, thus facilitating the deepening of the Aztecs' Christian faith.
After years of tireless missionary work, Blessed Juan de las Varillas succumbed to natural causes in an area that would later become modern-day Mexico. Though his mortal life may have ended, his legacy continued to inspire generations of Mercedarian friars and missionaries who followed in his footsteps. Today, he is venerated for his unwavering commitment to the Christian faith and his selfless dedication to the spiritual wellbeing of the Aztec people.
While specific details regarding his veneration and beatification are not available, the faithful continue to honor and commemorate Blessed Juan de las Varillas on the 21st of July, a designated feast day for the Mercedarian order. His exemplary life of service continues to serve as a shining example of faith and devotion for all those who seek to follow in his footsteps.