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Feast Day: August 25
Death: August 1, 25
Blessed Miguel Carvalho, also known as Michael Carvalho, was born in 1579 in Braga, Portugal. He entered the Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits, in 1597, demonstrating a strong commitment to his faith and a desire to serve as a missionary.
After completing his studies and being ordained as a priest, Miguel Carvalho was assigned to the Jesuit mission in Goa, India. Here, he dedicated himself to spreading the teachings of Christianity, engaging in both pastoral ministry and theological instruction. For fifteen years, he served as a faithful and dedicated teacher of theology, equipping others with the knowledge and understanding of the Catholic faith.
In the year 1623, Miguel Carvalho was appointed as a missionary to Japan, a period in history when Christianity faced persecution and repression in the country. Despite the risks involved, Carvalho accepted the mission and journeyed to Japan to continue his work of evangelization.
Soon after his arrival, however, Blessed Miguel Carvalho was arrested in July 1623 for openly spreading Christianity in Japan, an act that was strictly prohibited by the ruling authorities. Imprisoned for several months, Carvalho remained steadfast in his faith and continued to inspire those around him, even in the face of adversity.
Sadly, on August 25, 1624, Miguel Carvalho was burned alive in Omura, Nagasaki, Japan, for refusing to renounce his beliefs and cease his missionary activities. He suffered a martyr's death, bravely enduring persecution and sacrificing his life for his faith.
Recognizing his courageous witness and unwavering commitment to the Catholic Church, Pope Blessed Pius IX declared Miguel Carvalho a martyr on February 26, 1866, with a decree of martyrdom. Furthermore, on May 7, 1867, Pope Blessed Pius IX beatified him, paying tribute to his exemplary life and martyrdom.
Today, Blessed Miguel Carvalho is venerated as a hero of the Catholic faith, celebrated on August 25 as his primary feast day, as well as on September 10 as one of the 205 Martyrs of Japan, and on March 1 on some calendars. His life serves as an inspiration for all those who face challenges and persecution due to their Christian beliefs, reminding us of the importance of unwavering devotion and standing firm in the face of adversity.