Blessed Simão Da Costa

Biography

Blessed Simão Da Costa, also known as Blessed Simon, was a Jesuit novice, missionary, and martyr who dedicated his life to spreading the Catholic faith. He was born in Porto, Portugal, and displayed great devotion and piety from a young age. Simão joined the Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits, and embarked on a spiritual journey that would ultimately lead to his martyrdom.

As a missionary, Simão Da Costa was assigned to Brazil, a land that was still unfamiliar to the Catholic Church at the time. He eagerly embraced this opportunity to bring the Gospel to the indigenous people and to share the teachings of Jesus Christ. Simão's missionary work in Brazil was not without challenges, as he faced resistance and hostility from some local tribes who were not open to conversion.

Tragically, Simão's missionary journey was abruptly cut short when he fell victim to an act of violence. While en route to Brazil, he encountered Jacques Sourie, a Huguenot who vehemently opposed the Catholic faith. Sourie, filled with hatred and anger, took the life of Simão Da Costa by throwing him off the ship Santiago near Palma, Canary Islands. Simão's martyrdom symbolizes his unwavering commitment to his faith, even in the face of adversity and persecution.

Blessed Simão Da Costa's feast day is celebrated on July 16th. Additionally, he is honored on July 15th as one of the Martyred Jesuit Missionaries of Brazil, a group of devoted individuals who sacrificed their lives for the sake of spreading Catholicism in the New World.

After his death, Simão Da Costa's exceptional virtue and dedication to the faith became widely recognized, and he was venerated by the faithful. Pope Pius IX officially declared him blessed, signifying his cultus confirmation, on May 11, 1854.

The life of Blessed Simão Da Costa serves as an inspiration to all believers, reminding us of the courage and devotion required to embrace and share one's faith, even in the face of great opposition. His unwavering commitment to the Catholic mission and his ultimate sacrifice truly exemplify the ideals of a saint.