Saint Junipero Serra

Saint Junípero Serra was a Spanish Franciscan friar and missionary who played a key role in establishing many of the first California missions in the 18th century. His efforts aimed to spread Christianity and European culture among the indigenous peoples, often involving education and community building. While regarded as a religious pioneer and founder of California's mission system, his work is also controversial because it impacted native communities through cultural disruption and labor. Recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church, Serra's legacy is complex, reflecting both his religious dedication and the historical consequences of colonial expansion.