Saint Francis Ferdinand De Capillas

Biography

Saint Francis Ferdinand De Capillas, also known as simply Saint Francis Ferdinand, was born on 11 August 1607 in Baquerín de Campos, Palencia, Old Castile, Spain. He led a life dedicated to serving God and spreading the Catholic faith. Francis Ferdinand joined the Dominicans in Valladolid, Spain, and was ordained as a priest in Manila, Philippines in 1631. He was assigned as a missionary and parish priest in Cagayan, Philippines, where he worked tirelessly to bring the Gospel to the local population. After serving in Cagayan for some time, Father Francis Ferdinand felt a strong calling to bring Christianity to China. He ventured to Fu-kien in China, where he successfully converted numerous individuals to the Catholic faith. His zeal and passion for evangelization made him a well-known figure in the region. However, his work did not go unnoticed by local authorities, who viewed his conversions as a threat. As a result, Father Francis Ferdinand was falsely accused of espionage, political intrigue, witchcraft, and disrespecting ancestor worship. The local officials arrested him and subjected him to harsh torture. Despite the severe suffering inflicted upon him, Father Francis Ferdinand remained steadfast in his faith and unwavering commitment to his mission. He even managed to convert some of his jailers to Christianity through his example and teachings. His courage and resilience in the face of persecution earned him the title of a proto-martyr of the Martyrs of China. Tragically, on 15 January 1648, in Fu'an, Fujian, China, Father Francis Ferdinand was beheaded for his unwavering devotion to Christ and his missionary efforts. His life ended in martyrdom, as he became one of the Dominican Martyrs of the Far East. Saint Francis Ferdinand De Capillas was venerated on 2 August 1908 by Pope Pius X, who declared his martyrdom. He was subsequently beatified on 2 May 1909 by the same pope, recognizing his sanctity and holiness. Finally, on 1 October 2000, Pope John Paul II canonized him, acknowledging his exemplary life and martyrdom as a testament to his deep faith in Christ. Saint Francis Ferdinand De Capillas is remembered as a heroic missionary who fearlessly carried the message of God's love to the people of China. His life serves as an inspiration to all Christians to remain steadfast in their faith, even in the face of adversity. Though not assigned as a patron saint of any specific cause, he continues to intercede and inspire believers around the world through his remarkable life and martyrdom.