St. Frei Galvão

St. Frei Galvão, Brazil’s first native saint, was a Franciscan friar known for his healing gifts and deep spirituality. He founded the Monastery of Light in São Paulo and became widely venerated for distributing “miraculous” prayer pills. Canonized in 2007, he remains a beloved figure in Brazilian Catholicism.

Antônio de Sant’Ana Galvão, better known as St. Frei Galvão, was born on May 13, 1739, in Guaratinguetá, a city in the interior of São Paulo, Brazil. Raised in a deeply religious family, his early devotion was evident, and by the age of 21, he joined the Franciscan Order, a decision that would shape the course of his entire life. As a Franciscan friar, Frei Galvão devoted himself to a life of simplicity, poverty, and service to the poor, emulating the ideals of St. Francis of Assisi.

His commitment to prayer, penance, and service quickly earned him a reputation for holiness. Frei Galvão was known not just for his pious life, but also for his acts of compassion and spiritual counsel. One of his most unique and enduring legacies is the creation of the “pílulas de Frei Galvão” or Frei Galvão’s pills—small bits of paper inscribed with prayers. These were folded into capsules and given to the sick, and many testified to miraculous healings after taking them. These prayer pills continue to be distributed today, especially at the Monastery of Light.

In 1774, Frei Galvão founded the Mosteiro da Luz (Monastery of Light) in São Paulo. This monastery became an important center of religious life in Brazil and remains a place of pilgrimage. He dedicated the rest of his life to the monastery, offering spiritual direction, celebrating Mass, and caring for those in need. Despite not seeking fame or recognition, word of his holiness spread far and wide, and many came to him seeking guidance and healing.

Frei Galvão passed away on December 23, 1822. His burial site at the Monastery of Light soon became a destination for pilgrims. Numerous miracles were attributed to his intercession, particularly two healings that were later officially recognized by the Catholic Church: one of a woman with a life-threatening uterine malformation and another involving a child with hepatitis. These miracles were instrumental in advancing his cause for canonization.

On May 11, 2007, during a papal visit to Brazil, Pope Benedict XVI canonized Frei Galvão as a saint of the Catholic Church. The ceremony, held in São Paulo, was attended by around 800,000 people, marking a significant moment in Brazilian religious history. Frei Galvão became the first Brazilian-born saint, a figure of immense pride and devotion for the nation.

Today, his legacy lives on through his monastery, his prayer pills, and the countless Brazilians who call upon him for spiritual aid. His feast day is celebrated annually on May 11, especially throughout Brazil, where he remains one of the most beloved saints.

Feast Day

11-5-2007

Birth Date

13-5-1739

Died Date

23-12-1822

Canonised Date

11-5-2007

Monastery of Light (Mosteiro da Luz), São Paulo, Brazil

St. Frei Galvão, Humble servant of God and healer of souls, Pray for us to trust in God’s mercy and love. Help us to live with faith, charity, and devotion, Bringing peace and healing to those in need. Amen.
ST. FREI GALVÃO

Video Not Found

ST. FREI GALVÃO

The information on this website is compiled from various trusted sources. While we aim for accuracy, some details may be incomplete or contain discrepancies.

If you notice any errors or have additional information about this saint, please use the form on the left to share your suggestions. Your input helps us improve and maintain reliable content for everyone.

All submissions are reviewed carefully, and your personal details will remain confidential. Thank you for contributing to the accuracy and value of this resource.

Credits & Acknowledgments

Anudina Visudhar (Malayalam) – Life of Saints for Everyday
by Msgr. Thomas Moothedan, M.A., D.D.
Saint Companions for Each Day
by A. J. M. Mausolfe & J. K. Mausolfe
US Catholic (Faith in Real Life) – Informational articles
Wikipedia – General reference content and images
Anastpaul.com – Saint images and reflections
Pravachaka Sabdam (Malayalam) – Saint-related content and insights

We sincerely thank these authors and platforms for their valuable contributions. If we have unintentionally missed any attribution, please notify us, and we will make the correction promptly.