Saint Pedro De San Jose Betancur

Biography

Saint Pedro de San Jose Betancur, also known as Pedro Betancur, Peter Betancur, Peter of Saint Joseph Betancur, and Saint Francis of the Americas, was born on May 16, 1619, in Villaflores, Tenerife Island, Canary Islands, Spain. He came from a humble background and worked as a poor shepherd during his early years. However, Pedro had a deep devotion to prayer, which he cultivated during his time tending to flocks. At the age of 31, Pedro left his shepherding duties and traveled to Guatemala City, seeking employment away from his sheep. There, he encountered the Jesuits and Franciscans, who befriended him and became instrumental in his spiritual journey. Inspired by his newfound companions, Pedro aspired to become a priest and enrolled in the Jesuit College of San Borgia. Unfortunately, due to his limited educational background, he struggled to grasp the required material and eventually withdrew from his studies. Despite his setback, Pedro's devotion to God remained strong. He took private vows and became a Franciscan tertiary, taking on the name Peter of Saint Joseph. Three years later, he founded Our Lady of Bethlehem, a hospital dedicated to caring for the convalescent poor. This endeavor marked the beginning of Pedro's mission to support the marginalized and neglected in society. Under Pedro's leadership, Our Lady of Bethlehem expanded to include a shelter for the homeless, schools for the poor, and an oratory. His charitable work extended beyond the hospital walls, as he ventured into the affluent areas of Guatemala City. Carrying a bell, Pedro went door to door, ringing it and pleading for support for the poor, while also calling on the wealthy to repent and recognize their responsibility to help others. Inspired by his compassionate actions, other individuals joined Pedro's cause, and together they formed the Bethlemite Congregation, also known as the Hospitalers Bethlemite. This group received papal approval for their charitable work after Pedro's death. Pedro's devotion to serving the poor also led him to build chapels and shrines in the impoverished sections of the city. Additionally, he promoted the practice of intercessory prayer among those who had little aside from their time. It is sometimes attributed to him that he originated the Christmas Eve posadas procession, in which individuals representing Mary and Joseph seek shelter for the night from their neighbors. This beautiful custom quickly spread to Mexico and other Central American countries, bringing joy and faith to many during the Christmas season. After Pedro's passing on April 25, 1667, in Guatemala City, his tomb became a place of pilgrimage. It is believed that those who gently tap on his stone tomb can have their prayers fulfilled. As a testament to the answered prayers, numerous stone tablets scratched with thank-you notes are often left on his tomb. Saint Pedro de San Jose Betancur was venerated on July 25, 1771, when Pope Clement XIV declared his heroic virtues. Centuries later, on June 22, 1980, Pope John Paul II beatified him. Finally, on July 30, 2002, in Guatemala City, Pope John Paul II canonized him, making Saint Pedro de San Jose Betancur the first native Guatemalan to be recognized as a saint. Today, Saint Pedro de San Jose Betancur is revered as a patron saint of the Bethlemite Congregations, and his life and work continue to inspire individuals to serve the marginalized and seek God's intercession through prayer.