There are times when we feel flustered and overcome by all our obligations. We become overextended with work, home, family and community projects. Just writing these thoughts makes me tired.
Today is the feast day of a saint who was a tireless worker in Our Lord’s vineyard in the U.S. – Blessed Junípero Serra. Father Serra arrived in the New World in 1749. He then walked from Vera Cruz, Mexico to Mexico City to dedicate his mission work at the shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
In 1767, Father Serra became responsible for 15 missions in California. This was the start of his evangelization in our country. In 1776, the American Revolution was beginning in the east while another part of the future United States was being born in California. That year Father Serra founded Mission San Juan Capistrano.
Junípero’s missionary life was a long battle with cold and hunger, uncaring military commanders and even death. His fervor was nourished by prayer each night from midnight until dawn.
By the time of his death, at the age of 71, this dedicated gray-robed Franciscan personally founded nine missions. He baptized 6,000 people and confirmed 5,000. He traveled 24,000 miles spreading Christianity along California’s Camino Real.
Father Serra’s motto was:
[quote]“Always go forward, and never go back.”[/quote]These words certainly exemplify his life and serve as guidance to us.