Venerable Antonio Margil: The “Patron Saint” of Texas

Few Franciscan missionaries have influenced San Antonio as profoundly as Venerable Antonio Margil de Jesús. His commitment to evangelizing the Americas, establishing missions in Texas, and exemplifying humility and holiness has left a lasting spiritual heritage. As Margil moves closer to sainthood, prayers for his intercession may lead to his official recognition as the Patron Saint of Texas.

Antonio Margil de Jesús was born in Valencia, Spain, in 1657. From an early age, he felt a calling to religious life and joined the Franciscan Order, embracing poverty and dedicated service. In 1684, driven by zeal for evangelization, Margil journeyed to the New World. After extensive training, he undertook decades of travel on foot throughout the Yucatán, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Guatemala, successfully converting thousands. Margil’s humility shone through in his letters, which he signed “La Misma Nada” or “Nothingness Itself,” expressing his complete surrender to God’s will.

In his late fifties, Margil began the most defining phase of his missionary work in Texas. He arrived in East Texas in 1716, founded several missions, and then moved westward. In 1720, he established Mission San José near Mission San Antonio de Valero (the Alamo). Mission San José grew into the largest and most important mission in San Antonio, becoming a vibrant center of community and spirituality. Today, it remains an active parish and a key part of the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.

Margil deeply engaged with local cultures in his approach to evangelization. He learned indigenous languages, respected their traditions, and used eloquent preaching and spiritual writings to spread the Gospel effectively. He composed a version of the revered hymn “Alabado,” which profoundly moved those he served. Margil’s methods became standard practice through the establishment of Franciscan Colegios in Mexico and Guatemala, schools that trained future missionaries who continued his work in San Antonio. Margil himself served as president and guardian of several of these colegios.

After a short stay in San Antonio, Margil returned to Mexico to preside over the Colegio in Zacatecas, educating a new generation of missionaries. Following his one-year tenure, he eagerly resumed his evangelization. As he departed, Margil famously challenged his colleague Simon, asking, “Do you dare to go with me to set the world on fire?” Together, they preached and heard confessions throughout the region.

Padre Margil died on August 6, 1726, in Mexico City. His life was marked by extraordinary endurance and steadfast faith despite arduous journeys and harsh environments. Accounts describe miracles attributed to Margil, including striking water from rock and miraculously quick travel, earning him the nickname “winged friar.”

The process for Margil’s canonization began shortly after his death, formally opening on July 19, 1769. Theologians approved his spiritual writings in 1796, and Pope Gregory XVI declared him “Venerable” in 1836, recognizing his heroic virtues. The next step toward beatification requires verifying a miracle attributed to Margil’s intercession, with a second miracle needed for full canonization.

Recently, the Archdiocese of San Antonio honored Padre Margil by creating the Padre Margil Pilgrimage Center, home to El Camino de San Antonio Missions. Located behind Mission Concepción at 263 Felisa St., the center promotes pilgrimage to the San Antonio Missions and Cathedral, preserving Margil’s legacy through interactive exhibits and a short film.

Venerable Antonio Margil’s influence endures in San Antonio through Mission San José and the ongoing devotion of the faithful. His humility, perseverance, and faith remain inspiring examples. The faithful are encouraged to seek his intercession privately, praying for miracles to advance his canonization. Those interested in learning more about Margil’s remarkable life are welcome at the Padre Margil Pilgrimage Center, open Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm.