PADRE SERRA

A TRIBUTE IN VERSE

by

HENRY MAIBUSCH, O.S.A.

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DEDICATION On the occasion of the300th Anniversary of the birth of Padre Serra

(November 24, 1713), this

Padre Serra, A Tribute in Verse,

is dedicated in endearing memory to all the men and women, who over the years were members of Serra Interna onal, as part of the Serra Club of Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Author’s Note:

This tribute to Padre Serra is wri en in a form of verse, in which the third syllable of every four-syllable phrase is accented. The sound of the cadence and rhythm of the verses may be heard by quo ng the first few lines of the Prologue, for example:

At the me when Padre Serra,

Sailed away to distant New World, Some two-hundred years had passed by,

Since the me of Dom Columbus.

The first name of Padre Serra, Junipero, may be pronounced with the accent on the second or on the third syllable of his name, for example, Junipero, or Junipero, corresponding to the demands of the meter in the verse lines.

On the few occasions when words in Padre Serra, A Tribute in Verse, are in quota on marks they are not, of course, an exact, impossible, direct quota on, but rather an a empt by the author to make a reasonable conjecture of the unspoken thoughts or spoken words to emphasize a par cular person or event in the context of those verses in the general narra on.

For any chronological, biographical, or historical inaccuracies which may s ll lurk in the lines of Padre Serra, A Tribute in Verse, the author asks the forbearance of the a en ve reader for some poe c license, remembering also that this is the ini al verse tribute a empt of an amateur and therefore it is not of the scholarly quality of the talented authors listed in the bibliography.

No part of Padre Serra, A Tribute in Verse, may be reproduced in any form without the permission of the author.

© Copyright 2013, Henry Maibusch, O.S.A.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The author is indebted to the knowledge and inspira on gained from reading the published wri ngs, among others, about Padre Serra, listed in the bibliography; to the fraternal encouragement of his fellow confreres in his local Augus nian Community; and as long me spiritual advisor of the Serra Club of Kenosha, Wisconsin, for the enthusias c support of its members in undertaking this project for the commemora on of the 300th Anniversary of the birth of Padre Serra in this Year of the Lord, 2013.

Also, a word of grateful commenda on is due to the un ring efforts of Mrs. Kathi Manchester in typing the pages of the manuscript, and her heroic pa ence in view of the many addi ons, dele ons, and changes made according to the demands of the meter in the lines of the various parts of the text before arriving at its final form.

FORWARD

During the past three centuries a rela vely vast amount of material has appeared about the life and work of Blessed Padre Junipero Serra, O.F.M.

Various forms of the material have been early biographies, some edited autobiographical notes and wri ngs, historical narra ons, pictorial presenta ons, drama c plays, and even a Hollywood movie.

Herewith is my own modest contribu on to this vast pool of Serran literature in the form of an unpublished manuscript, namely Padre Serra, A Tribute In Verse.

All that remains to be done in the judgment of the author is to invite the reader to begin. Read on, and come to grow in your knowledge, apprecia on, and affec on for Padre Serra.

AUTHOR

Father Henry Maibusch, O.S.A. St. Rita of Cascia Parish 4339 Douglas Avenue

Racine, WI 53402-2997 262-681-3221 ext. 19

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HISTORICAL NOTE By the late 1700’s in our Country, the eastern seaboard, with the excep on on Florida, was already well se led by the Thirteen Original Colonies, but the western part of our na on was s ll mainly unexplored, an unknown, vast territory, inhabited by the Na ve American, and with Baja California (Mexico) in control of the Spanish.

The mo ve of the Spanish monarch, Carlos III, for the venture in New Spain at the me of Padre Serra was indeed poli cal to prevent the incursion of other na ons into such territory. But the methods used for explora on and conquest were both military and religious. Hence, both soldiers and missionaries made the trek northward from Mexico from the Baja into the Alta regions of California.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH

Padre Junipero Serra, O.F.M., was born on November 24, 1713 at Petra, Spain. His early educa on was with the Franciscan Friars, whose Order he joined as a member, to be a Brother first, but then was ordained as a Priest. He became a dis nguished professor of philosophy and theology in his former Franciscan seminary, although he always yearned to go to the missions in the “New World”. At age 36 he was finally granted permission to go to the Franciscan Mission in Baja California (Mexico). A er several years he was commissioned to go to Alta California, where over a period of about 15 years he established 9 Missions, from San Diego in the south, stretching along the Pacific coast north to San Francisco. A er his death on August 28, 1784, at Mission Carmel, where he is buried, 12 more Missions were established by other Franciscan Friars. Many of these 21 former Missions grew into the large modern ci es of the State of California.

Padre Serra, Na onal Medal of Honor, by Act of Congress,

October 16, 1963 Padre Serra, declared Venerable, by Pope John Paul II,

May 9, 1985 Padre Serra, Na onal Commemora ve U.S. Postage Stamp,

August 22, 1985 Padre Serra, Bea fied, by Pope John Paul II,

September 25, 1988

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Padre Serra. Drawing by George Pollard, Reprinted, Courtesy of George Pollard Founda on

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CALIFORNIA MISSIONS OF PADRE SERRA San Diego de Alcalá (1769) Loca on: San Diego, CA

San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo (1770) Loca on: 120 miles south of San Francisco. CA

San Antonio de Padua (1771) Loca on: 60 miles southeast of Montery, CA

San Gabriel Arcangel (1771) Loca on: San Miguel Valley, San Gabriel, CA

San Luis Obispo de Tolosa (1772) Loca on: 145 miles southeast of Monterey, San Luis Obispo, CA

San Francisco de Asis (1776) Loca on: San Francisco, CA

San Juan Capistrano (1776) Loca on: 55 miles south of Los Angeles, CA

Santa Clara de Asis (1777) Loca on: 40 miles south of San Francisco, Santa Clara, CA

San Buenaventure (1782) Loca on: 70 miles north of Los Angeles, Ventura, CA

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LIFE OF SERRA Prologue ................................................ 9 Early Years ........................................... 12 Religious Life ....................................... 13 Profession of Vows .............................. 15 Priesthood Ordina on ........................ 16 Seminary Professor ............................. 17 Departure for New World……. ............ 19 Ocean Voyage………………... .................. 20 Mexico Apostolate .............................. 21 California Missions ........................ 22-34 Death of Padre Serra ........................... 35 Epilogue............................................... 37 Ode to Padre Serra .............................. 38 Prayer to Blessed Padre Serra ............. 41 Prayer for Sainthood ........................... 42 Selected Bibliographies ....................... 43

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PROLOGUE At the me when Padre Serra,

Le his homeland, sailed away to Distant New World, great discovery,

Hist’ry-making, world –reshaping, Had been made by, brave Columbus.

Some two hundred years had passed by, To the me of Padre Serra,

Since the great and fearless sailor Dom Columbus, sponsored by the

King of Spain, then, and his queen, the Isabella, had sailed forth in,

Small flo lla, three ships only, Crossed the wild and unknown ocean,

Vast uncharted, open waters, Stormy weather, frigh ul high waves,

Dreary day-lengths, countless long days, Even longer, darkened nigh mes,

Seldom hot food, scarce fresh water. Day by day, and s ll more days then, Made the voyage seem most endless,

Sailing westward, ever westward, Thus dispelling flat-earth theory.

Each day farther, crossing mighty, Great, wild ocean, watchful sailors, Scanned the skyline, hours passing,

For the hope – for Western “Indies”. Days of silence, thoughts unspoken,

Strong and fearsome, doubts persis ng, Only mistrust in the hearts of Weary sailors, in the non-flat,

Untried theory of their captain. Days foreboding, brooding worry; “What will happen to us, helpless,

Ship-bound sailors, on these frail cra s On this vast and open ocean,

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On this endless, dreary water, In our reckless quest for Indies?” But then a er, weeks a-sailing,

Weeks that dragged by, boring sameness. But each evening, close to sunset,

As the evening, shadows lengthened, Daylight failing, night approaching,

As was custom, all the sailors In their daily, faithful prac ce,

Gathered topside on the main deck Praying ‘specially, supplica on,

To the Blessed, Virgin Mary, Singing Vespers: “O Maria,

Salve, Mater, O Regina, Queen of Heaven, Christ’s own Mother,

Help of Chris ans, hear our pleading, For safe passage, on this voyage,

Filled with anxious, unknown dangers, Sailing westward, ever westward, Always trus ng, your protec on.”

Only steersman, for the night watch, Stayed at wheel helm for his me slot,

Til another, came relieving, Taking his turn, at the steer wheel,

Holding steady, to keep straight course, Of the small ship, ever westward. All the others, dri ed off, soon,

Each to his own, sleeping hammock. And through hours, of long darkness,

Sailors sleeping, gently swaying, In their rope-beds, with the rolling, Pitching, heaving, to and from so, Of the vessel’s, constant mo on.

Hours passed by, in their slumber, Rest from weary, day me worries,

Til the dawning, of the daylight,

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Wakened sailors, with the sunshine, For some breakfast, at the masthead,

Which was followed, by a new day. Came another, very rou ne,

Day a-sailing, chores and du es. But with daylight, inly thinking,

Came, as always, constant worries, Of their voyage, risky venture,

Of an untried, expedi on, Dreary loneness, which seemed endless,

Sailing westward, ever westward, Lengthy, stormy, ocean crossing.

Oh, what joy, then, when at long last, Came the shou ng of the sailors:

“Landfall sighted on horizon!” Now at long last, eyes beheld it,

Land to westward, oh, what happy, Sight for sore eyes, strained to see it! Trust, restored then, hope rekindled,

In the doubted, private vision Of their captain, Dom Columbus.

In his flagship, Sant’ Maria, He saw also, “Thanks to God”, then

Distant shoreline, on horizon, Of the islands, of “The Indies”.

(Hence the name for Na ve Peoples, Great misnomer through the ages.) “Straight ahead now, unfurl all sails! Toward horizon!” Land at long last!

No more flat-earth. Theory vanquished! Great adventure. Great discovery!

Soon was reached then, with a triumph: Land of Promise, named the “New World”.

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EARLY YEARS Born was Serra, on the island Of Mallorca, off the eastern

Spanish coastland, home town, Petra. Serra parents, humble persons,

Small stone house theirs, peasant dwelling, Faith-filled Chris ans, firmly Catholic,

Daily living, Gospel values. Blessed were they then, with their new-born

Child so hoped-for by both parents. God had blessed them, in His Wisdom,

With a son, so greatly cherished, For the future, great and holy, Missionary, to the New World.

Ever grateful, for their new son, Serra’s parents, soon they named him

At his christ’ning, in the local Church at Petra, “Miguel Jose”.

To the honor, of archangel, And the holy, great St. Joseph

(Only later, at Religious Vowed Profession, would he take then

As a new name, “Junipero”, As a Friar, as Franciscan,

To the honor, of companion, Of his Founder, great St. Francis.) Serra’s parents seldom traveled,

Any distance from their hometown, And a formal educa on,

They were lacking. But they wanted, First and foremost, be er future

For their dear son. Wise, foresighted, Sacrificing, God-dependent,

They entrusted Him for future, Faith and knowledge, well-imparted,

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For his training and well being, To the care of the Franciscans,

Friars, teachers, nearby schooling, At an early age as youngster,

For his basic educa on. Came the courses: Mathema cs,

Geographic maps, and La n. Spanish Hist’ry, Reading, Spelling,

Memor’za on, all so basic, Yet important, for his early,

Youthful training, educa on. Gi ed student, grateful scholar,

With a fine mind, clear and eager, He excelled soon, in his studies.

RELIGIOUS LIFE There his teachers, opened new and Wide horizons, for his young mind.

Providen al, in these years thus In his early educa on,

Youthful Serra, did then witness, From his teachers, Monks and Brothers,

Of the Order of St. Francis Selfless service, dedica on, For his own fine educa on.

There awakened, soon within him Thoughts and longing, to voca ons

As Religious, as Franciscan, Friars Minor, with injunc on:

“Love of God and, Poor in Spirit”. In those young years, teenage Serra Heard the whisper, years a-passing,

So inspired, God’s own call, Ever inly, to an answer;

For voca on, in the Order;

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Of St. Francis, in the future, Himself one day, with God’s willing,

A Franciscan, Monk and Friar! With the passing of those years then,

Young adulthood came upon him. But the calling to voca on,

Never le him, only stronger, In desire, in his hope for,

Dedica on, life’s voca on. Granted entrance to the Order

Of Franciscans, as a Novice Year’s dura on, young aspirant,

Guided always, by the Spirit. Prayerful, grateful, humble, docile,

Serra learned the Rules and Statutes Cons tu on, Life and Hist’ry Of the Order, Friars Minor.

In his daily medita on, Life in common, and reflec on,

As a Novice, youthful Serra, Learned to love, in prepara on,

The full meaning, depth and beauty, Of the Three Vows: Poor in Spirit,

Chaste in Body, and Obeyful To his brethren, to his mentors.

With their guidance, he looked forward, “God so willing,” to that great day,

Of profession, public, solemn, Of the Three Vows which would make him

Monk and Friar, a Franciscan.

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PROFESSION OF VOWS At the year’s end as a Novice, He was ready, and accepted

For Profession, of his First Vows, It was then that, as was custom, He took new name, “Junipero”, As his first name, as Religious.

Henceforth, now, and in the future, To this new name he would answer,

His full life me, as Franciscan. A er First Vows, with years passing,

Came more studies, academic, Mostly La n, and Church Hist’ry

Philosophic and Dogma c, All in due me, prepara on

For his future, in Church service. During those years, as a student,

Youthful Serra, Junipero, In his humble and sincere heart, Thought of only, just a “Brother”

As Franciscan was his calling, In the Order, as voca on.

God however, in His wisdom (“Man proposes, God disposes.”) Planned another great voca on.

Serra’s calling turned to Priesthood, So that one day, “Friar Serra,”

Would become the “Padre Serra,” Alter Christus, Priest-anointed,

Ontologic, changed forever, In his inmost being, then and

Henceforth, even, past the threshold, Of this me, unto eternal.

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PRIESTHOOD—ORDINATION When the me came, for the great day,

Joyful longing, Ordina on, At the hands of local bishop,

To the Priesthood, of Christ Jesus, Soon to be then, “Padre Serra,”

He decided by the guidance Of the Spirit, Inspira on,

Though ul, surely, prayerful always Chose for life me, guiding mo o:

“O Siempre adelante, Nunca atrás,” (with the meaning:)

“Always forward, never backwards,” Which would help him, much in future,

Times of trouble, toil and labor, Through the hardships of his travels Built-in dangers, worn and weary,

Yet from mo o, he took great strength Zeal and courage, resolu on,

Dedica on, to be faithful, To his vision, more than decades,

In his labors, for the founding Of the Mission, in the New World.

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SEMINARY PROFESSOR A er his own Ordina on,

Sent was he then, back to former, Seminary, he had come from,

Now new status, not as student, But as teacher, as professor,

To his brethren, now his students, In the Order of Franciscans.

In the classroom, halls of lectures, Year-in, year-out, steady progress,

In his teaching, as professor, Earned he ever, more and widespread,

Recogni on, reputa on, Well deserve’d, for his though ul,

Well-presented, clear, incisive, Daily lectures, in the field of,

Philosophic, Theologic, Academic, presenta ons.

Soon to him came the great honor: Dean and Doctor, great dis nc on,

At such young age (29) the achievement: Ph.D. and Chair and Head of

His Department, in his present, And his former, House of Studies,

Seminary of Franciscans. While s ll teaching in the classrooms,

Oh, so slowly it did seem then, One by one the years were passing. Though he s ll was fine instructor,

Grateful for his skill as teacher Padre Serra, had, as always,

In his great heart, such deep longing Constant yearning, hoped for, prayed for,

With God’s willing, to set sail forth Soon in future, as Franciscan

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To Bring Christ’s name to the New World Yet unknown there, by so many:

Love and Teachings, Grace and Mercy And Redemp on, to the Na ves Of the New World, Missionary! Padre Serra wrote some le ers

On occasion to the Priors Of his Order, always asking,

For permission, to join others, Priests and Brothers, in the New World

There already, as in their Missions In their work with Na ve Peoples. But the constant, always answer:

“You are needed, here as teacher.” Docile, humble, pa ent always,

Ever faithful to his holy, Vowed submission, to the wishes

Of his Priors, ever mindful, Trus ng always, that in God’s me,

And then only, some permission Would be granted, Padre Serra,

Stayed some more years, as professor For the younger, Monks and Friars

In his former seminary. When at long last came permission,

To release him, from his du es, As a teacher, Oh, what joyful,

Prayers he offered, grateful always, To his Father in the Heavens, For such favor, in the answer, To the constant intercession,

Of his Patron, great St. Francis, And his namesake, Junipero.

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DEPARTURE FOR NEW WORLD When the me came, for departure,

From his homeland, with companions Fellow Friars, some Franciscans

To set sail for, far-off distant Missionary, na ve New World, Where his Order, had already

Some founda ons, early Missions Well – established, for some years then,

In the Lower, in the Baja. Before sailing to the New World, Padre Serra had the heartache, To say farewell, then – forever –

To his parents, friends and colleagues, Fellow Friars, at the harbor,

Of the island of Mallorca Where soon he boarded,

Spanish vessel, “Villasota”, Bound for many dreary, boring,

Weeks of sailing, ever westward, Toward the goal of, far-off distant,

Strange and New Spain, ever westward, Weeks ahead yet, on vast ocean,

Sad departure when the shoreline Of his na ve Spanish homeland

Faded into distant sigh ng. But his calling was quite clear s ll, Trus ng God, he knew within him,

God had called him, to the New World Future life as Missionary.

But his mo o, served him well s ll; “O Siempre adelante,

Nunca atrás!: (English meaning:) “Always forward, never backwards.”

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OCEAN VOYAGE Long the voyage, weeks unending, Some three months to Puerto Rico,

Known then, “Gateway”, to the New World, And the voyage, what a challenge:

Stormy weather, frigh ul high winds, Small ship rolling, causing sea-sick.

Dreary long days, deeper even Nigh me, darkness, restless turning,

Sleepless hours, dawn a-wai ng. Hot the sun’s glare, on the deck side, Scarce fresh water, seldom hot food, Stale and tasteless, more than o en,

Made the voyage, seem most endless. But at long last came the sigh ng:

Puerto Rico, and the landing. Rest for two weeks, and then onward

To the last part of the voyage S ll more sailing to the gulf side,

One more month to reach the Baja, Vera Cruz port, and to anchor

Safe at long last in the New World. A er landing at the port of

Vera Cruz, there s ll remained yet Two hundred miles more to travel, All on foot now, with their baggage,

To reach Missions of Franciscans On the well-known, the King’s Highway,

Called “El Camino, El Real”road, On this journey, Padre Serra’s

Leg was bi en by an insect, A mosquito, a zancudo,

Which would cause him, all his life me, Pain and trouble, in his walking, With a lame leg, on his journeys,

No complaining came from his lips, In his heart he just repeated:

“Always forward, never backwards.”

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MEXICO APOSTOLATE Padre Serra, spent some years then

At Franciscan Baja Missions At San Blas, and at Lore o Si’rra Gorda, and Puebla,

Guadalajara, Oaxaca, Valladolid – while he traveled

Some 5000 miles, rough numbers. In between his teaching du es,

He learned na ve, local language, Preaching, Masses, and Bap zing

Near two decades all together, Before word came from Franciscans,

And from civil high command that He was chosen with some others Missionaries, Monks and Friars,

Captain Portala, with soldiers To explore, and to extend the El Camino of the King’s Road,

Of the royal, the King’s Highway, For another thousand miles north,

To establish Spanish Missions With his tle, “Presidente.”

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CALIFORNIA MISSIONS Mission San Diego de Alcala

July 16, 1769 This first Mission was established, By the Padre, and was called the

“Mother Mission”, near in view of The Pacific, coastal ocean.

Named in honor: Saint Diego, Patron saint of all the Brothers,

Of the Order of Franciscans, Founded a er trek six-hundred,

Miles all northward, from the Baja, Where Franciscans some years early,

Had already other Missions, And to which same Padre Serra, First had come to a er landing,

Three months voyage, from the seaport Spanish Cadiz, from his homeland.

When he le there, he knew full well, That he never, would in future, Ever see his friends and family In this world, years a-passing,

While he labored, l his own death, Nearly fi een, some years later.

As was custom, at each Founding Of a Mission, there were two forms,

First religious, then the civil, Military, dedica on:

Padre Serra loud proclaimed forth” “Now and henceforth, I invoke Your Blessings, always, on this Mission.

May Almighty, God the Father, Through His Son, and Holy Spirit,

Guide our work here, to His honor, Bring Salva on, grace, and blessings

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On this newly-made founda on!” Holy Water then he sprinkled (So symbolic of the thousands

Of Bap sms he would make soon.) On the large oak wooden cross there

Sign of faith then, and for future At the Mission’s dedica on.

Then was added the tradi on, Of the chan ng, of the solemn,

The Te Deum et Laudamus. Next came civil ceremony, Military, with the captain,

Of the soldiers, standing forefront, Sword in right hand, soil in le hand, Sergeant nearby, holding flag there

High alo , and proudly waving, Large flag in the windy breezes,

Flag of Spanish, distant homeland. Loud the Captain, then proclaimed he:

“All this land here, I do claim now, For King Carlos, Spanish Monarch. Then the soldiers fired muskets,

Bells rang loudly, all rejoicing, At the founding of First Mission.

This was followed by some feas ng And rejoicing at First Mission. A real banquet, food a-plenty, Soldiers, Padres, all partaking,

Of the bounty set before them. Work construc on soon would follow,

But now me was for rejoicing, At the founding of new Mission.

Which had been made, in the New World. Years that followed, saw the Mission

Grow and flourish, but years later, Tribe Yumany, the most warlike,

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Hos le na ves, plo ed evil, Set on fire, Mission buildings, Stole belongings, killed a Friar, Padre Jaime, then retreated.

From the ashes, not long a er, Large new Mission, was constructed.

This the second, same loca on, But this new one, stone founda on,

High adobe walls around it, For protec on, lest in future

There be other, hos le ac ons, By some Na ves from the region. In the passing years that followed,

Eight more Missions, would be founded By the Padre, Junipero,

All established, from the southern To the northern coastal regions

By Pacific Ocean access So supply ships, from the Baja, Older Mission of Franciscans,

Could replenish and could visit, In the Alta, those new Missions,

As was needed, in the beginnings. Since no bishop, yet was present In the Missions, of the new World

Serra later, then was given By a Papal, special Indult,

Timely rescript, just for himself, To confer on, the new converts,

Sacrament of Confirma on, As he traveled, from one Mission

To another, in his monthly Faithful care of visita ons.

All these Missions, nine in number Were established, by intrepid,

Dedicated, Founder Serra.

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Years a-passing, twelve more Missions A er death of Padre Serra,

Were established, by the selfless, Toil and labor, of some later Other Friars, all Franciscans In the spirit, of their leader

Padre Serra, Missions Founder.

Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo June 3, 1770

A er Mission San Diego, Was established, Padre Serra,

Set sail northward, on supply ship “San Antonio,” to establish

Second Mission, at the chosen Monterey site, near the ocean,

Mission Carmel, “By-the-Seashore”, This great Mission, Serra’s great love, Would be home-site, for the Padre,

While he traveled, monthly journeys, Back and forth from north to south and,

South to north again so o en, In his ac ve, daily ventures.

Early writers of his life’s work Tell us clearly, in his life me, Padre Serra, mostly lonely,

Set of purpose, he accomplished Twenty-thousand miles of travels,

Some mes shipboard, some mes muleback, But most o en, just by walking, Always humbled, by a painful,

Sore and lame leg, which was treated For some med care, by a muleteer!

And the Mission, de Carmelo Was the first one, when constructed,

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No adobe, rather cut stone, With lush gardens, water fountains, Big high towers, for the bells there, And dis nguished, first with library.

In the future, it was des ned To become for Padre Serra

When just worn-out, frail and failing, From his labors, a er fi een,

Years a trekking, place of death bed, Final res ng place for Serra.

Mission San Antonio de Padua July 14, 1771

A er Mission de Carmelo, Padre Serra traveled southward,

On the Real El Camino, With a small group, soldiers, Friars,

To the central, coastal region, In the shadow of the mountains,

“San’ Lucia” there were called then, To the valley of the oak trees,

Where they hung up on a tree limb, Large brass bell there, rang it loudly,

Padre Serra; “Hear, O Na ves, Come together, come and receive,

Faith of Chris ans, care and training.” At Third Mission, life con nued,

Chores and building, steady progress, Padre Serra, and the Friars

Priests and Brothers taught the Na ves Some new ways of agriculture,

Cra s and wood-work, singing, music, Sowing, plan ng, crop rota on,

Care for livestock, sheep and ca le, Goats and horses, midst the rolling

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Hills and valleys, in a daily round Of life and living, blessed by Heaven,

All with faith and, prayers and worship. This fine Mission, recogni on,

Famous for the horses bred there, Golden color, Palominos. And here also, in the Alta,

Of the Mission territory Was the first one, water-powered

Corn for grist mill, daily usage Same two hundred year old church bell

May be seen s ll, on display now In the site of quaint museum.

To be sure, though, for the record. Some of soldiers at the Missions, Who resented being sta oned,

At these outposts, far from homeland, (“Está úl mo rincón del mundo.”)

(“This last corner, of the New World.”) These same soldiers, treated Na ves

Very harshly, and unjustly. Filled with pride, and so disdainful,

They did show in their behavior And their judgment, more than o en,

Just contempt and haughty bearing With a mindset, so unchris an, Yet unchanging to the Na ves, They regarded not their equals,

Li le be er than some remnant, Just removed from Primal Stone Age. And the soldiers caused much trouble

With the women of the Na ves And they spread some new diseases,

Devasta ng to all Tribes there, Who had no cure for such ills as, Measles, Small Pox, or the V.D.s.

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This one Mission, San Antonio Was as others, years that followed,

Named in honor, of his boyhood Saints and heroes, from his hometown

Church at Petra, where he grew up. This Third Mission, served the se lers,

And the soldiers, and the Na ves, As a Parish, faith and worship,

Both in me past, by Franciscans, Then, and s ll now, to the present.

Mission San Gabriel Arcangel

September 8, 1771 This founda on is the second, In Just one year, by Franciscan,

Padre Serra, fourth of five more. Was located ‘bout the half-way,

From the Mission, San Diego, To the Mission of San Carlos. Jedediah Smith, the famous,

Mountain man, and the fron ersman, Of early lore and reputa on, With his party, came to visit,

This old Mission, and henceforth, Pledged his friendship, with the Padres.

Mission San Gabriel also, Had dis nc on of hand-hammered, Copper large font, gi King Carlos,

Sacramental, for Bap sms. Strange, but true, is told the story, That when Friars, came to se le, To begin the work of founding,

This new Mission, to confront them, Came some hos le, warlike Na ves.

Bows and arrows, spears and weapons

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Frigh ul war-paint, to a ack them. But the Padres, with a pain ng

Of the Virgin, did withstand them, Held the pain ng, up before them,

Saw them lay down all their weapons, And surrendered, fascinated, By the Image, of the Virgin,

Which can s ll be, seen at present, Honored wall place, in the Old Church.

Now this Mission, has the status, Of historic, U.S. Landmark.

Mission San Luis Obispo, de Tolosa

September 1, 1772 Named in honor of the Bishop,

A Franciscan, in a far-off, Distant, country, this Fi h Mission

Was located in the valley, Which was known as, by the Padres

And the se lers, who did call it In that region, “Valley of Bears.”

Has dis nc on, bright red roof les, Baked adobe. “Twas the answer,

(Inspira on, gi from Heaven) Of the Padres, to repeated,

Frequent fires to the Missions Wooden roof top, by some warring, Hos le Na ves. And the red les, S ll do conjure, in the mind’s eye,

Scenes of many modern places So symbolic, California.

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Mission San Juan Capistrano November 1, 1776

Founded in the year of U.S. Independence, called at mes with

Name of Beauty, “Jewel of Missions,” Damaged badly, in the region

By the earthquake, which did strike it. Legendary, for the yearly,

March migra on, for the comeback, Of the swallows, from their thousand,

Miles a-flying, Argen na, To the Mission, to build nests there, Round the me of, yearly feastday Of Saint Joseph, in the spring me. Years ago then, when the swallows

Did return to fabled Mission, The Franciscans, like Saint Francis,

Nature lover, of all creatures, Rang the bells then, for the swallows.

(Bells were buried, Mission garden, Times of danger, confronta on,

Hos le Na ves, but soon unearthed, When the danger last had passed by.)

Soon at San Juan, were run loudly, All the bells there, small and large ones,

Joyful pealing, swinging freely, As a sign of “Happy Welcome”

To returning flocks of swallows. Bells at Missions had good purpose:

Foundings always, rung at Mass mes, Joyful weddings, tolls at death mes,

And to welcome guests of honor. Many pilgrims, s ll in our me,

Come to Mission Capistrano, Year-in, year-out, celebra on, On the feast day of St. Joseph, For his honor, and to welcome,

The returning flocks of swallows.

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Mission Santa Clara de Asis January 12, 1777

Named in honor of Saint Clara, Humble woman, poor in spirit

And in lifestyle, dedicated, Holy Foundress, of the Poor Clares,

From the same town, of Saint Francis, Whose example she admired,

And then followed, in her life as, Poor detachment, gathered others,

Sharing vows, and life together, Serving God and many others,

With the works of love and service. At this Mission, here and always,

Gentle father to the na ves, Padre Serra shouted loudly In his o -said admoni on

To the soldiers, all who hear him: “No slaves! No slaves! Not here ever!

Nor at any, other Mission!” We will not make same mistake made,

By the former widespread prac ce, Of slave-owners, on the East Coast,

As in past me, of this Country. This the last one of the Missions To have Mission church, by Serra

Blessed by him in dedica on. And this Mission also damaged

Was quite badly, by the earthquake. (1812) It was given to the care of

Priests and Brothers, of the order Of Society of Jesus

Who then later did establish, Santa Clara University.

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Mission San Francisco de Asis June 29, 1776

Known as also, “Mission D’lores” Of “Our Lady of the Sorrows,”

From the name of nearby river, “Arroyo de Dolores”,

Was established to the honor, Of Saint Francis, Patron, Founder,

Of the Order, of Franciscans. (This sixth Mission, incedent’ly

Was established, in the same year As of U.S. Independence.)

At its founding, dedica on, By the Padres, as was custom,

At the joyous celebra on, Bells were ringing, cannons booming,

Banners flying, muskets fired, Awed the local tribes of Na ves,

With the white man’s skill and power. So did come forth some protec on,

For the future of the Mission, From those hos le, na ve tribes there.

This Old Mission, earthquake triumph (1906), To its credit, s ll the oldest, Standing building in the city, By-the-Bay of San Francisco.

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Mission San Buenaventura March 31, 1782

This the last one, of the Missions, Padre Serra, did establish,

Some two years, before his own death, Is located, on the former,

Older roadway, El Camino. This large Mission, fi ng tribute,

Great and las ng, tes mony, To a life me, endless travels,

Fi een years of toil heroic. This great Mission, since its founding

S ll has offered, Sacraments and Holy Masses, to the present

(With excep on, one month only). It’s the only Padre Mission,

To have used some, wooden bells there. And it houses, these fine treasures,

In museum at the Mission, For the public, on display there:

An que statues, altar items, Priestly vestments, and old pain ngs, All of which can s ll be viewed there,

S ll preserved at site museum. All these Missions, nine in number

Were established, by intrepid, Dedicated, Founder Serra.

A er Serra’s death at Carmel (1784) There came twelve more newer Mission

By Franciscans, faithful Friars, Who did carry, on his life work.

All those Missions, in the New World Grew and prospered, setbacks o en, But became then, from the humble, Starts and hardships, from historic,

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Past to present, great new ci es, Urban centers, las ng witness,

To Franciscan Missionaries, Bearing names that give great glory

To the modern, great large ci es. Of the Western, Golden State now:

San Diego, Santa Clara, San Carmelo, Santa Barbara, San Gabriel, San Francisco.

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DEATH OF PADRE SERRA Near the hour of his dying,

Padre Serra saw his old friend, Fray Palou come to visit;

“Thank God you’ve come, I’m near my death, And my wish is to receive now,

Sacrament of Extreme Unc on.” Fray Palou answered quickly:

“I will come here with the Eucharist And the Holy Oils Anoin ng.”

(Weak and weary, but determined, Humble always, all his life me,

And near death now) s ll so docile, “No,” said Serra, “I will go to,

Mission Chapel, for the last me, To receive Christ, for my journey, From my life here to life eternal.”

Padre Serra, back in his room, On his death bed, lay in silence,

For some me then. Then he asked for, Fray Palou to do sprinkling, Holy Water on his cell walls.

Palou spoke then so ly: “When you draw near to the Presence,

Of Most Holy, Triune God then, Please do offer adora on

On behalf me, and all others.” Padre Serra: “I do promise.”

“If God grants me the salva on Which I don’t deserve, in mercy,

I will pray for you and others, As well as future converts,

In the Missions here in Alta.” Padre Serra, lay in silence,

Listened to the prayers for Dying,

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Crucifix he held in both hands, On his weak chest, closed his eyes then,

Breathed his last breath, and his soul then, Passed from this life, life eternal. Soon the Mission bells a-tolling,

Told of his death on that sad day, In the early a ernoon me.

Fray Palou made arrangements, For the funeral of his best friend:

Laid in simple redwood casket, Padre Serra, in the habit,

Of Franciscans, his own Order, Placed in front of Mission altar.

Soon came hundreds of the mourners, From the Mission and surroundings,

From the fields and from the regions, All in grief now at the death of, Dear beloved, Mission Father.

As the mourners, many weeping Passed by wailing, by his casket, Listened to the choir chan ng,

Signed themselves with sign of Cross, too, Each one placed upon his casket, One small flower, Rose of cas le.

Lo, so many tribute flowers, ‘Til in short me, Serra’s body,

Seemed to float with fragrant perfume, On a bed of small pink roses.

When the funeral Mass was ended, Padre Serra then was buried,

Near the altar sanctuary, Mission Church of San Carmelo. (1784)

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EPILOGUE If you ever come to visit,

Padre Serra’s holy grave site, At the well-known, place of honor,

Mission Carmel, San Francisco, Golden Gate of California,

And you’re looking for some statue, Plaque or tablet, or for something,

As an honor, know for certain, Padre Serra, has already,

Very special, place of honor, Capitol at Sacramento,

And in great hall, Hall of founders, In the Na on’s, Capitol, D.C.,

The Rotunda, where as Founder, By his Missions, on the West Coast,

He established, the founda ons, Of the modern, great large ci es:

San Diego, Santa Clara, San Francisco, San Carmelo,

And some others, five in number. But if s ll you’re looking, seeking,

Monument, or other honor, Pause some moments, and recall the

Words of wisdom, truly spoken, In another applica on,

By Sir Chris Wren, and here quoted: “Si requires monumentum,

Circumspice!” (English translate), “If you’re looking for some tribute, Just look round you!” Applica on, Of this well-known, fine quota on,

To the life and work of Serra: “If you’re looking for some statue,

Plaque, or tribute, pause a moment, Just step back, and look around you,

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And remember all Nine Missions Padre Serra did establish,

In his life me, Founding Father, Of great ci es on the West Coast

Of our Country, California.

ODE TO PADRE SERRA Blessed Serra, Holy Patron

Of all Serrans, even worldwide, Hail, your noble saintly life me,

Faithful Friar, of Franciscans, Missionary to the New World.

Loyal Companion, to your Brothers, In the Order of St. Francis.

Short in stature, strong in spirit, Many virtues, some heroic, Manifested, in your daily,

Life me venture, and a ested, Not unno ced, by your comrades, By your Brothers, and the soldiers, So determined, and trustworthy, On your travels, for the Missions.

Many virtues, here recounted: Kind and helpful, ever mindful,

Of the cares and needs of others. Prayerful, honest, frank and candid, In your speech, and in your ac ons,

Mission Builder, wise as mentor, In your daily life and labors,

(Hence the nickname: “Grey Ox Friar”) Even though, as dauntless traveler,

Pioneering and resourceful, Early writers have recounted,

As an able “Presidente” How you traveled, such great distance,

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Some mes shipboard, or on muleback, But more o en, simply walking,

With a lame leg, insect-bi en And some asthma, chronic, painful,

From one Mission to another, Humble, weary, yet determined, Trus ng always, in the goodness, Providen al, grace and blessing,

Of the Father, and St. Francis, You con nued, ever faithful

To your life me, noble mo o, Heart engravend, and so cherished”

“O, siempre, adelante, Nunca atrás.” (English translate)

“Always forward, never backwards.” Which sustained you, yet so o en,

Many mes in years a-passing. In the face of many hardships,

From some dangers, and disasters, Frequent mishaps, hos le Na ves,

Unexpected trials and perils, And some acts of violent nature.

Yet in spite of o -repeated, Difficul es, on your journeys,

You remained an ever-present, Steadfast, sterling, strong example,

Faithful witness, guide intrepid, Source of courage, perseverance, Keen explorer, dauntless leader, Brave fron ersman, to all others,

Blessed Serra, Holy Patron, Ever pa ent, ever humble,

Le ers always, signed by your hand; (“Most unworthy, missionary”)! A er nearly some two decades,

In the work of founding Missions,

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On the Real El Camino, Nine in number, and unique in

Style, each Mission for God’s glory, Padre Serra, Holy Patron,

Faithful always to your vowed life As Franciscan, dedicated,

Poor in spirit, chaste and holy, Never sparing your own body,

You did toil so to the last years. Fin’ly, worn-out from your life’s work, Soul you rendered, back to God then,

And were buried, Carmel Mission, Second Mission, your “headquarters”.

Many tles, rightly granted, To your fame, and to your honor,

But the greatest, is for certain, That of “Blessed” to your glory,

Blest in Heaven, everlas ng!

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PRAYER TO BLESSED PADRE SERRA Hail, O Blessed, Holy Patron,

Of all Serrans, even worldwide, We who honor, and implore you,

In your glory, now in heaven, In God’s presence, hear our pleas now,

For your favor, intercession, Inspira on, dedica on,

To be faithful, to our mission, Perseverance, mo va on,

In our trusted, goal and great work, Of promo on, for Voca ons:

Priests and Deacons, Vowed Religious, Men and women, Brothers, Sisters,

For the good of our Church worldwide, And the glory, God Almighty. Amen

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PRAYER FOR SAINTHOOD O Lord grant us, in our life me,

Joy and glory, praise and worship, To Your honor, for the favor,

To see long last, “Blessed Serra” For new tle, “Saintly Serra”

For Your greater, praise and glory, God Almighty. In Your Heaven,

‘Fore Your throne, both saints and angels All rejoicing, at his sainthood,

While our voices, here on Earth s ll, Now all Serrans, join the chorus,

In thanksgiving, for Your greatness, Everlas ng, for all ages.

Yet in humble expecta on, Meek and docile, trus ng always, In the me frame, of Your wisdom What may come soon, or in future.

We await s ll, Your Divine Will, For the next step, of Blest Serra, To his sainthood, intercession,

For all Serrans, Worldwide Patron, To assist us, in our honored

Work and pray’r for, more voca ons: Priests and Deacons, Vowed Religious,

Men and women, Brothers, Sisters, All so needed, even worldwide

In our days now. Hope we always, Soon to see him, Blessed Serra, Raised to status: Saint forever!

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SELECTED BIBLIOGRAPHY:

Remembering the California .Missions, Pat Hunter and Janice Stevens

Junipero Serra, Agnes Repplier

Fray Junipero Serra, Mark Brunelle

The Man Who Founded California, M.L.N. Couve de Murville

Junipero Serra, A Pictorial Biography, Mar n J. Moragado

Junipero Serra’s Legacy, Mar n J. Morgado

The California Missions, Francis J. Weber

Never Turn Back, Father Serra’s Mission, Jim Rawls

Serra, American Founding Father, Ray Gasnick, OFM

This booklet was published by the following Serrans in great apprecia on and gra tude to the author, Father Henry Maibusch, O.S.A, and in honor of the 300th Anniversary of Blessed Junipero Serra’s birth on November 24, 2013

Nancy & Ma Ivary

Yoshi and Frank Gerner Lynn and Dan Jones Dixie and Bob Labat

Mary Lynn and Greg Schwietz Audry and Greg Lynch, glynch0001@comcast.net

Reprinted with permission of the author, Father Henry Maibusch, O.S.A.

At no me will be a copy be sold.

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