Saint Francis Xavier

Francis Xavier (1506–1552) was a Basque nobleman who met Ignatius of Loyola at the University of Paris and became one of the first Jesuits. In 1541 he sailed for India and for eleven years preached in Goa, southern India, the Spice Islands and Japan, baptizing thousands. He died on Shangchuan Island waiting to enter China.

He is co-patron of the missions with Saint Thérèse of Lisieux. His body is venerated in the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa, and the Novena of Grace in his honor is prayed March 4–12. Franciscan Media lists him as patron saint of jewelers.