Saint Pedro Calungsod

Biography

Saint Pedro Calungsod, also known as Peter Calungsod, was a notable figure in the Catholic faith, known for his martyrdom and dedication to spreading Christianity. He was born around 1654 in Ginatilan, Cebu, Philippines, and was named after Saint Peter the Apostle. Calungsod received his education from the Jesuits in the Visayas, a region in the Philippines. Under their guidance, he acquired the skills of reading, writing, and speaking Visayan, Spanish, and Chamorro languages. Additionally, he possessed numerous talents, such as painting, drawing, singing, and carpentry work. Being deeply committed to his faith, Calungsod became a teenage catechist, assisting Spanish Jesuit missionaries who traveled to the Ladrones Islands (now the modern Marianas) in 1668. This region was known for its violent Chamarro inhabitants who had resisted Christian conversion. Calungsod wholeheartedly embraced his mission to educate and catechize the Chamorro people, including performing baptisms. Tragedy struck in 1672 when Calungsod, along with Father Diego Luis de San Vitores, faced opposition from two natives. Despite his young age, Calungsod displayed immense courage, defending Father San Vitores as they encountered hostile resistance. Unfortunately, both were brutally murdered - Calungsod was hacked to death with a catana. His body was mutilated and thrown into the sea. Recognizing Calungsod's unwavering commitment and martyrdom, his cause for canonization was eventually pursued. On 27 January 2000, Pope John Paul II decreed his veneration as a saint after a rigorous investigation of his martyrdom. Later, on 5 March 2000, Pope John Paul II beatified Calungsod at Vatican City. The beatification process included the investigation of a miraculous cure of bone cancer through Calungsod's intercession. The tireless efforts to honor Calungsod culminated in his official canonization date of 21 October 2012, proclaimed by Pope Benedict XVI. The canonization marked a significant recognition of Calungsod's sanctity and his impact on the Catholic Church. Today, Saint Pedro Calungsod is venerated as a revered figure by the Catholic faithful. He is particularly regarded as the patron saint of young people, serving as an inspiration for the youth to embrace their faith and courageously live out their beliefs, despite any challenges they may face.