Pedro Calsungsod, Hand-Painted Saint Medal, Martyr, Patron of the Philippines

    Pedro was born in the 17th century in the Philippines and was named after Saint Peter the Apostle. He was taught by the Jesuits and soon became multi-lingual, proficient in reading, writing and speaking many languages, skills that helped him tremendously in later years. He was a loyal follower of the Evangelist Diego Luis de san Vitores. Pedro and his mentor Diego travelled extensively and are known for converting many of the Chamorro people in Guam and nearby islands. Their tireless evangelism led to frequent attacks “In Odium Fidel,” hatred of faith, by pagans of the time. Undeterred, Pedro and Diego continued their valiant work, promoting Christianity. They performed a Baptism for an infant on behalf of her mother and were captured and beaten by two natives in the Ladrones Islands. Pedro could have escape but instead stood with Diego, confronting the agitators. Pedro’s heart was pierced with arrows and he was later mutilated and murdered by a natives’ machete. Pedro and Diego's