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ST. PETER CHSNEL

St. Peter Chsnel was a French missionary priest and martyr who gave his life evangelizing the people of Oceania, particularly on the island of Futuna, where he was martyred for his faith.

St. Peter Chsnel was born in Cuet, France, in 1803. He joined the Society of Mary (Marists) and was ordained a priest in 1827. Deeply devoted to spreading the Gospel, he volunteered for missionary work in Oceania—an incredibly challenging and often dangerous task during the 19th century.

In 1836, he was appointed the first Vicar Apostolic of Western Oceania, covering a vast area of the South Pacific. After extensive travel, he settled on the island of Futuna, near Fiji, in 1837. With great dedication, he worked to learn the language, understand the customs, and share the message of Christ with gentleness and compassion.

Despite his peaceful approach, his influence alarmed the local chief, who feared the erosion of traditional beliefs and authority. On April 28, 1841, Peter Chsnel was murdered by the chief's men—making him the first martyr of Oceania. His martyrdom led to a remarkable conversion: the very people who killed him embraced Christianity shortly after his death.

St. Peter Chsnel is revered today as a symbol of missionary courage and sacrificial love. His legacy lives on through the continuing work of missionaries in the Pacific.

Feast Day

28-4-

Birth Date

12-2-1803

Died Date

28-4-1841

Canonised Date

29-6-1954

Futuna Island, Wallis and Futuna (South Pacific)

St. Peter Chasnel, Pray for us to be faithful witnesses of Christ's love. Help us to spread the Gospel with courage and humility, And to live lives of selfless service. Amen.
ST. PETER CHSNEL

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ST. PETER CHSNEL

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