July 14: Saint Francis Solanus
There are several saints from the area of Peru. He evangelized Peru, Chile and northern Argentina and died at Lima.
PRAYER: Saint Francis, you are of the few to obtain sanctity in this hemisphere, lead all of us here to follow in your footsteps to holiness. Amen.
Additional information:The diocese of Cordova, Spain, was the birthplace of this Saint, who won many thousands of souls to God. From his earliest years he was characterized by a modest behaviour, prudent silence, and edifying meekness. While still very young he was always able to effect a reconciliation between the most bitter enemies. Once when he came upon two Spaniards who were engaged in a deadly strife, he threw himself between them, and kneeling down, prayed with so much fervor that the fierce combatants sheathed their daggers and became reconciled to one another. In the year 1589 he sailed for South America to preach the Gospel to the Indians of Peru. On the same vessel with him were six hundred negro slaves. While still at some distance from shote the ship struck a ledge of rocks, and the danger of drowning was imminent.The captain hurried the officers and principle passengers into the only boat there was, and tried to induce the missionary to accompany them; but he refused to do so in these terms: "Sir, you have done your duty; now I shall do mine. I stay here." He then consoled the remaining passengers, directing their thoughts to heaven. He knelt down with them and prayed fervently, exhorting those who had been baptized, instructing those who were not, and comforting all. Meanwhile the vessel was sinking, and the passengers trembled with fear; but not so the sealous missionary. He alone kept up his hope in God's mercy. Thus three dreadful days were passed, until at last the captian came with the life-boat and all were taken off in safety. His last words were, "God be praised!" after uttering which his soul departed this earth on July 14, 1610. 
