Ceferino Namuncurá

Zefyrinus ( Ceferino ) Namuncurá ( born August 26, 1886 in Chimpay, Argentina, † May 11, 1905 in Rome) is a blessed of the Salesian Family. The young layman indigenous ( Mapuche ) origin was beatified in his birthplace Chimpay on 11 November 2007.

The son of a soldier came up with 11 years to Buenos Aires, where he was to follow in the footsteps of his father. However, he entered the College of the Salesians of Don Bosco and wanted to become a priest. His idol was Dominic Savio, and he managed to be a little like it: in piety, charity, everyday commitments and religious exercises. Gradually, he himself became a model and his friends took things very seriously, he said. He taught balance and moderation.

In 1903, he met Cardinal John Cagliero, who took him to Italy, where he continued his studies. It is also hoped that the climate change would have a positive impact on the ailing health of the young man. On March 28, 1905 he was taken to hospital, but it was too late: he died peacefully on May 11.

Since 1924, his body is in his home in Fortin Mercedes, where even today there are numerous pilgrims who ask for his intercession.

On May 2, 1944, the canonization process was initiated, since June 22, 1972, he applies to the Roman Catholic Church as worthy of veneration, since 11 November 2007 as blessed.