March 23

b.1538, Spain. d.1606, Peru.

Nobility. Lawyer. Professor of law at Salamanca, Spain. Ordained in 1578 at age 40. Archbishop of Lima, Peru. Founded the first seminary in the Western hemisphere. Fought for the rights of the natives against the Spanish masters. Organized councils and synods in the New World.

"Lord,
through the apostolic work of Saint Toribio
and his unwavering love of truth,
you helped your Church to grow.
May your chosen people continue to grow in faith and holiness.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever. Amen. "
St. Toribio, pray for us!