Peter Chanel

Saint Peter Chanel was born on July 12, 1803, in the hamlet of La Potière near Montrevel-en-Bresse in France. The son of humble parents and once a young shepherd, he showed early piety and promise, leading him to the seminary and to priestly ordination in 1827. Though he longed for the foreign missions, he first served faithfully in parish life, winning hearts through zeal and tender care for the sick. In 1831 he joined the Society of Mary, and after years of quiet formation and service, he was sent at last to Oceania. In 1837 he arrived on the island of Futuna, where he patiently learned the language, endured isolation and hardship, and became known as “the man with the kind heart.” As the Gospel began to take root, opposition grew. When a chief feared the loss of his authority after his son sought baptism, Peter was attacked and clubbed to death on April 28, 1841, sealing his witness with martyrdom. He is venerated as a patron of Oceania and of missionaries. His feast day is April 28.