Pedro de San José Betancur
1626-1667 17th century Feast day: April 25
The charity of one who, having known destitution, makes it the place of his prayer.
Who was Pedro de San José Betancur?
A shepherd of the Canary Islands who set out to seek his fortune in Guatemala, he reached Antigua so poor that he had to beg his bread. A Franciscan tertiary, he opened a shelter for destitute convalescents, a refuge for the homeless, a school for poor children. At night he walked the streets ringing a small bell, calling the living to pray for the dead and for themselves.
In their own words
Remember, brethren, that we have but one soul; if we lose it, we shall not recover it.