Francis Xavier, one of the founding members of the Society of Jesus, also known as the Jesuits, set sail from Lisbon as part of a mission directed at the Portuguese East Indies—a vital region for early modern European colonial interests. Under the patronage of King John III of Portugal, Xavier's journey represented not only a religious quest but also an expansion of the Portuguese Empire's influence in Asia. His main goal was to reach India, where he planned to convert locals to Christianity and provide educational resources. Xavier’s choice to embark on this journey reflected the broader trends of the 16th century, as European powers competed for control over trade routes and access to new territories.

During the voyage, Xavier faced numerous challenges, including lengthy sea travel and the need to understand diverse cultures and languages. Upon arriving in Goa, he quickly set to work, focusing on missionary education, pastoral care, and addressing the needs of local communities. His methods included forming connections with influential figures, utilizing local languages, and even adopting certain cultural practices to facilitate dialogue and growth. Xavier's dedication and various strategies greatly influenced the success of his mission.

Xavier eventually traveled further east to Malacca and then Japan. His experiences and reflections during these missions were documented and contributed to the broader understanding of missionary activities in Asia. He established missions that would eventually thrive and spread Christianity across the region, marking significant strides in global religious demographics. Through his passionate and innovative approaches, Francis Xavier became one of the most significant missionary figures of the 16th century, leaving behind a legacy that would shape the trajectory of Christian missions in Asia for centuries to come.