Vasco de Quiroga, venerable (ca. 1470–1565)

Biography

1470–1565), Spanish jurist and first bishop of Michoacán, arrived in New Spain in 1531 as an oidor to confront corruption and abuses against the indigenous population. He firmly defended the justice and dignity of the Purépecha peoples. Although he was a layman, he was elected bishop and received episcopal ordination in 1538. He promoted evangelization and catechesis, founded the College of Saint Nicholas and created hospital towns as communities of Christian life, education, work and care for the sick and poor. The indigenous people affectionately called him “Tata Vasco.” He died in Pátzcuaro on March 14, 1565. Pope Francis recognized his heroic virtues on December 21, 2020, which is why the Church venerates him as Venerable.