Dr. Carl Vennerstrom discusses St. Peter Claver's missionary work in New World, serving African slaves with compassion. Topics cover motives behind missionary work, baptism of slaves, compassionate acts, and emulating Saint Peter Claver's selfless service.
St. Peter Claver dedicated his life to serving African slaves, emphasizing human dignity and care despite communication challenges.
His humility was evident in selfless service, aiming to convert slave owners through love and preaching the gospel.
Deep dives
Life and Mission in the New World
Saint Peter Claver, a Jesuit missionary born in Spain, dedicated his life to serving slaves brought to New Granada, modern-day Colombia, and Panama. Ordained as a priest, he focused on baptizing and ministering to around 300,000 African slaves, emphasizing the human dignity and care of these oppressed individuals despite challenges in communication and cultural diversity. By navigating through different languages and utilizing interpreters, he preached the gospel and demonstrated love through actions like providing essential goods and medical care.
Humility and Servitude
Peter Claver's humility was evident in his selfless service, referring to himself as the 'slave of the slaves.' He humbly showered care on the marginalized, including lepers and prisoners, and even engaged with slave owners, aiming to convert them through his actions of love and preaching the gospel. His energetic pursuit of humility was exemplified in his tireless efforts to secure support for the slaves and advocate for their well-being, showcasing a profound commitment to his mission.
Legacy and Devotion
Despite some misconceptions, Saint Peter Claver's virtues as the patron saint of slaves resonated through his actions and beliefs. Revered for his humility, compassion, and dedication to serving the oppressed, he continues to inspire individuals to emulate his example of unwavering love and respect for all, regardless of social status. His memorial serves as a reminder to uphold the values of charity and dignity towards humanity, following in his footsteps of profound devotion and selfless service.
Dr. Carl Vennerstrom shares about St. Peter Claver, a saint with a heart for the poor, outcast, and enslaved. As a young, Jesuit priest he signed up to be a missionary to the New World to serve the slaves at the port of Cartagena, a major hub of slave trade. St. Peter indiscriminately preached the gospel through words and works of mercy to all he encountered.