Francis Xavier

Born in Navarre, Francis Xavier was one of the first companions of Ignatius of Loyola and a co-founder of the Society of Jesus. A great missionary, he dedicated his life to evangelization in Asia, notably in India (Goa), the Malay Archipelago (Moluccas), and Japan. He was a pioneer in the spread of Christianity in the East and is considered one of the greatest missionaries of the Church. His apostolic zeal and ability to adapt to local cultures left a significant mark on the history of missions. He died in 1552 on Sancian Island, off the coast of China, before being able to enter the mainland. He was canonized in 1622.