Saint Francis Xavier: Courage in Mission
Francis Xavier (1506–1552), the fearless Jesuit missionary, exemplified radical courage through relentless obedience to God’s call despite unimaginable risks.
- Left everything instantly: When Ignatius of Loyola asked him to join the Jesuits, Xavier abandoned a brilliant academic career at the University of Paris without hesitation.
- Sailed to India (1541): 13-month voyage around Africa with storms, disease, and scurvy; most passengers died—he ministered to them until arrival.
- Faced hostility alone: In India, Japan (first Christian missionary there in 1549), and beyond, he entered territories where foreigners were suspected or hated, preaching openly, baptizing thousands, often under threat of death.
- Died on a doorstep: In 1552, denied entry to China, he died of fever on Sancian Island, staring toward the mainland he was forbidden to reach—never turning back
Leadership Lessons for Catholic Leaders
His motto: “Give me souls, take away the rest.” Xavier’s courage was not bravado but total trust: he believed the Gospel was worth any cost, including his life.
