Roque González de Santa Cruz
Missionary and saint in Paraguay

Born
November 17th, 1576
448 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1628
396 years ago — 51 years old
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
Paraguay
Links & References
Born in 1576, dedicated work in Paraguay as a Jesuit missionary focused on evangelizing the indigenous populations. Established the first Jesuit reductions in the region aimed at protecting the Guarani people from enslavement and fostering education. He was martyred in 1628 while spreading the Christian faith among the tribes of the area. Canonized as a saint in 1988, he is remembered for his commitment to both faith and social justice.
Founded the Jesuit Reductions in Paraguay
Canonized as a saint in 1988
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