Father Junipero Serra

Blessed Junipero Serra’s story took place long ago. His name, roughly translated means “Jester of God.” On the west coast, it was Father Serra who began the foundation of the Catholic Church. Junipero founded over 20 missions and converted many Native Americans. His name is also the namesake of the “Serra Club,” a group dedicated to fostering the growth of spiritual vocations, especially religious novices. Father Serra was beatified in 1988 and is currently awaiting Canonization. If you know of any just cause attributed to Father Serra, contact The Cause of Padre Serra,  Old Mission, Santa Barbara, 2201 Laguna Street, Santa Barbara, California 93105. © 2007