Saint Peter Chanel

      On April 28th we celebrate the life of Saint Peter Chanel. Peter was born in Clet, France in 1803. After ordination to the priesthood he was assigned to his first parish and within three years was able to completely revitalize it. Peter was attracted to the missionary life and, therefore, joined the Marists, an order dedicated to missionary work at home and abroad. He was assigned and taught in the seminary of Belley for the next five years.

      In 1836 Peter got his wish to go abroad and was sent to lead some missionaries to New Hebrides. Upon arriving, Peter and two others set off for the island of Futuna. Once there, they were fairly successful at converting people. Among their converts was the son of the local king. The king became angry and sent warriors to attack Peter. Three years after arriving on the island, on April 28, 1841, Peter was clubbed to death. However, within five months of his death, the entire island was converted to the Faith. Saint Peter was canonized in 1954 by Pope Pius XII.