St. Francis Xavier

St. Francis Xavier was one of the first members of the Society of Jesus, also known as the Jesuits. He and St. Ignatius of Loyola were roommates at the University of Paris. St. Ignatius was forming the new order, and St. Francis Xavier joined.

St. Francis later traveled as a missionary to India and Japan. While a missionary he adapted to the customs of the countries he lived in. He also believed that native clergy were necessary to spreading the gospel in other lands.

Patron Saint of ...

He is the patron saint of foreign missions.

Mass Readings for the Memorial of Saint Francis Xavier, Priest

In addition to the readings below, the readings for the memorial may be taken from the readings of the day or the Common of Pastors.

• First Reading – 1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22-23: “If I preach the Gospel, this is no reason for me to boast, for an obligation has been imposed on me, and woe to me if I do not preach it!”
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 117: “Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.”
• Gospel – Mark 16:15-20: “But they went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the word through accompanying signs.”