Saint Peter Claver
Feast Day: September 9
Saint Peter Claver was a Jesuit priest who dedicated his life to helping enslaved people. He was born in Spain in 1580. He felt called to become a missionary. He went to Cartagena, in what is now Colombia, to serve those who were suffering.
In Cartagena, many slaves were brought from Africa to be sold. They were treated very badly and lived in terrible conditions. Saint Peter Claver worked among them, offering them food, water, and medical care. He also taught them about Jesus and baptized them.
Saint Peter Claver called himself “the slave of the slaves forever.” He spent over 40 years caring for the physical and spiritual needs of enslaved people. He saw Christ in them and believed they deserved dignity and respect.
Today, Saint Peter Claver is remembered for his compassion and service. He was declared a saint by the Church in 1888. He is the patron saint of missionaries and the fight for human rights.
A Young Man with a Mission
Peter Claver was born in 1580 in a small town in Spain. His family was not rich, but they were hardworking and faithful Catholics. From a young age, Peter showed a love for God and a desire to help others.
When Peter was old enough, he went to study at the University of Barcelona. While he was there, he felt God calling him to be a priest. He joined the Jesuits, a group of priests and brothers who focused on teaching, helping others, and spreading the Gospel.
As Peter went through his training, he met an older Jesuit named Alfonso Rodriguez. Alfonso was a humble man who worked as a doorman at the Jesuit college. He encouraged Peter to become a missionary and go to the Americas to help those in need. Peter listened and felt this was the path for him. After finishing his studies, he was sent to Cartagena to begin his life of service.
A Friend to the Forgotten
When Peter arrived in Cartagena in 1610, he saw the terrible suffering of enslaved people. Ships carrying slaves from Africa arrived in the port. The slaves were treated like cargo, packed in tightly with little food or water. Many were sick or dying when they arrived. Peter knew this was where he was needed most.
Peter Claver made it his mission to meet the slaves as soon as they came off the ships. He brought food, water, and medicine to help them recover. He also brought clothes and blankets to cover them. Peter did not speak their language, but he showed kindness through his actions. With the help of translators, he spoke to them about Jesus and gave them hope.
Peter spent his time teaching the slaves about the Catholic faith. He baptized thousands of people, helping them understand that they were loved by God. He called himself “the slave of the slaves” because he wanted to serve them in every way. He also defended them against those who treated them cruelly.
Despite the harsh conditions, Peter never gave up. For over 40 years, he worked in Cartagena. He often visited the plantations where slaves were forced to work. He continued to care for them, both spiritually and physically, wherever they were.
Many people did not understand why Peter spent so much time with the slaves. Some criticized him, but he was not discouraged. He believed that every person had dignity and worth, no matter their situation. His mission was clear: to bring comfort, care, and faith to those who were suffering most.
Love in Action
Saint Peter Claver’s work with the enslaved people went beyond just meeting their physical needs. He showed them love and respect when no one else would. He treated each person with care and kindness, knowing they were children of God. Peter believed that the slaves, like everyone else, deserved dignity.
Peter often entered the dirty and overcrowded slave ships to care for the sick. He did not worry about getting sick himself. He cleaned the wounds of those who were hurt and held those who were dying. He prayed with them and comforted them in their last moments. His actions showed that he truly cared for their lives and souls.
Peter was not just concerned about the slaves’ bodies, but also their spirits. He taught them about Jesus and the Catholic faith. He spent time learning their languages, so he could speak to them directly. With the help of interpreters, he explained the Gospel and baptized over 300,000 slaves during his years in Cartagena.
Peter’s compassion extended to helping them adjust to their new lives. He provided practical support, like food and clothing, but also offered spiritual guidance. He visited them on the plantations, encouraging them to trust in God and to love one another, even in their difficult circumstances.
Peter Claver’s work showed that love in action can make a difference. He knew he could not end the suffering of all the slaves, but he could be there for them in their need. His life was a witness to the power of mercy and service.
A Saint for the Suffering
Saint Peter Claver’s life of service did not go unnoticed. After he died in 1654, people began to honor him for his work with the enslaved. His example of caring for the most forgotten inspired many. Over time, more people recognized him as a model of mercy and compassion.
In 1888, the Church declared Peter Claver a saint. Pope Leo XIII canonized him, officially recognizing his life of holiness. The Pope wanted the world to see Peter as a hero of faith and love for the poor. His feast day is celebrated every year on September 9, the day after his death.
Saint Peter Claver became the patron saint of missions to African people and human rights. His life shows the importance of standing up for those who are oppressed and suffering. His work among the enslaved continues to inspire those who fight for justice and equality today.
Peter Claver’s legacy lives on, especially in the Americas, where he spent his life. Many churches, schools, and organizations have been named after him. They carry on his mission of serving the poor, the sick, and the marginalized. His name reminds people of the dignity of all human life.
The values that Saint Peter Claver stood for—compassion, service, and respect for every person—are still needed today. His life teaches us to care for those who are suffering, no matter their background. He showed that love is stronger than hatred and that mercy can change lives.
Every September 9, Catholics around the world remember Saint Peter Claver. His example encourages us to act with kindness and to reach out to those in need. His story continues to inspire those who work for justice, peace, and human dignity.
A Life of Service and Compassion
Saint Peter Claver’s life reminds us of the importance of seeing Christ in every person. He did not turn away from those who were suffering. Instead, he made it his mission to care for them. His life challenges us to ask ourselves if we are doing the same. Do we notice the people around us who are in need? Are we willing to step out of our comfort zones to help them, just as Peter did?
Peter Claver teaches us that love is shown through actions. He did not just talk about faith; he lived it by caring for the sick, the hungry, and the enslaved. His life calls us to do more than just pray for others. It reminds us to serve others with kindness, patience, and humility. Are we showing our faith through what we do for others?
Another lesson from Peter’s life is the value of perseverance. He worked for over 40 years in very difficult conditions. Many people did not understand or support his mission. But he kept going because he believed in the dignity of every person. We can learn from his example when we face challenges in our own efforts to do good. Are we willing to keep going, even when things are hard?
Finally, Peter Claver shows us that every person, no matter their situation, deserves respect and love. He saw the enslaved people not as property, but as children of God. His life invites us to look at others the same way. Do we treat every person with respect, even when society may not? Are we willing to stand up for those who are treated unfairly?
Reflection Questions:
- How can I show love and compassion to those in need in my own life?
- What actions can I take to live out my faith more fully?
- Am I willing to serve others, even when it is difficult?
Daily Mass Readings for the Memorial of Saint Peter Claver, Priest
Readings for the Memorial may also be taken from may also be taken from the Common of Pastors, or the Common of Holy Men and Women.
- First Reading – Isaiah 58:6-11: The LORD outlines the true meaning of fasting: to fight injustice, help the oppressed, and care for the needy. Doing so leads to divine guidance, strength, and blessings.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 1: Those who avoid evil and delight in the LORD’s law are blessed. They prosper like a fruitful tree. In contrast, the wicked are fleeting and doomed, while the just are watched over by the LORD.
- Gospel – Matthew 25:31-40: Jesus tells his disciples that at the final judgment, people will be separated like sheep from goats based on their actions. The righteous, who cared for the needy, will inherit the kingdom of God.
Homilies and Reflections
Dynamic Catholic: Not on Bread Alone
This reflection reminds us that our spiritual needs are just as important as our physical needs. Jesus teaches that we cannot live on bread alone. Saint Peter Claver understood this when he dedicated his life to caring for enslaved people. He met both their physical and spiritual needs, reminding them of their worth in God’s eyes. The reflection encourages us to look beyond the physical world and focus on our spiritual well-being. It challenges us to ask ourselves how we are feeding our souls and reminds us that only God can truly satisfy us.
To love God as He ought to be loved, we must be detached from all temporal love. We must love nothing but Him, or if we love anything else, we must love it only for His sake.
St. Peter Claver
Resources
St. Peter Claver Activity Patch
The Saint Peter Claver Activity Patch, part of the American Saint Series, recognizes the remarkable life and contributions of Saint Peter Claver, a Spanish missionary who dedicated himself to serving enslaved individuals in Colombia. He is celebrated as the Patron Saint of enslaved peoples, the African diaspora, African missions, Colombia, and interracial justice. His compassionate work included meeting ships carrying enslaved people, providing them with food and medical care, and tending to their immediate physical needs before addressing their spiritual well-being.
This activity patch has grade-specific requirements for youth participants and opportunities for engaging activities like creating posters, drawing pictures, or organizing food drives. Adults can mentor and guide the youth in completing these requirements, fostering a deeper understanding of Saint Peter Claver’s impactful life.
The American Saint Series as a whole honors men and women who have profoundly influenced American Catholics through their faith, actions, and devotion to prayer and sacraments. These individuals, whether canonized as “Saints,” beatified as “Blessed,” or honored as “Venerable,” have left an indelible mark on the Catholic American landscape.
There are age appropriate options for young children, middle and high school, and adults. The patch program is sponsored by the National Catholic Committee on Scouting, but anyone can earn it, Scout or not. Or just use the materials to get ideas for teaching about this dedicated saint.
We must speak to them with our hands by giving, before we try to speak to them with our lips.
St. Peter Claver
Social Media Graphics
Questions and Answers
Who was Saint Peter Claver?
Saint Peter Claver was a Spanish Jesuit priest who served enslaved people in Cartagena, Colombia, for over 40 years. He helped them with their physical and spiritual needs.
When and where was Saint Peter Claver born?
Saint Peter Claver was born in 1580 in a small town in Spain called Verdú.
Why did Saint Peter Claver go to Cartagena?
Saint Peter Claver went to Cartagena to become a missionary. He wanted to help the enslaved people who were suffering there.
What did Saint Peter Claver do for the enslaved people?
Saint Peter Claver brought food, water, and medicine to the enslaved people. He taught them about Jesus and baptized them.
Why is Saint Peter Claver called “the slave of the slaves”?
Saint Peter Claver called himself “the slave of the slaves” because he wanted to serve the enslaved people with love and care.
How many people did Saint Peter Claver baptize?
Saint Peter Claver baptized over 300,000 enslaved people during his time in Cartagena.
When did Saint Peter Claver die?
Saint Peter Claver died on September 8, 1654, after serving the enslaved for many years.
When was Saint Peter Claver canonized?
Saint Peter Claver was canonized in 1888 by Pope Leo XIII.
What is Saint Peter Claver the patron saint of?
Saint Peter Claver is the patron saint of missions to African people and the fight for human rights.
When is Saint Peter Claver’s feast day?
Saint Peter Claver’s feast day is celebrated on September 9 each year.
What are the Mass readings for the Memorial of Saint Peter Claver, Priest?
Readings for the Memorial may also be taken from may also be taken from the Mass of the day, the Common of Pastors, or the Common of Holy Men and Women.
First Reading – Isaiah 58:6-11: Fasting and Justice
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 1: Path of the Blessed
Gospel – Matthew 25:31-40: Judgment and Compassion
Conclusion
Saint Peter Claver was a Jesuit priest from Spain who lived in the 1600s. He felt called to be a missionary and was sent to Cartagena, in what is now Colombia. Cartagena was a major center for the slave trade, where many African people were brought and sold as slaves. Peter made it his mission to serve these enslaved people.
He met the slave ships at the docks and helped those who were sick, hungry, or suffering. Peter gave them food, water, and medicine. He also shared the message of Jesus with them and baptized many. Over the years, he baptized over 300,000 enslaved people.
Peter called himself “the slave of the slaves.” He dedicated his life to caring for the enslaved, both physically and spiritually. He believed that every person, no matter their condition, deserved love and respect. He spent over 40 years helping those who were treated the worst by society.
After his death in 1654, Peter Claver was remembered for his work with the enslaved. The Church recognized his holiness, and he was canonized as a saint in 1888. His feast day is celebrated on September 9, and he is the patron saint of missions to African people and the fight for human rights.
Your Turn
Saint Peter Claver’s life of service and compassion teaches us important lessons about love and kindness. He cared for people who were suffering and treated them with respect. We can all learn from his example. Take a moment to learn more about his life and how he helped others. Reflect on how you can serve those in need in your own life. Please share your thoughts and experiences in the comment section. We would love to hear how Saint Peter Claver’s example inspires you to care for others.
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