Father Serra: Saint to Some, Unworthy to Others

missionary priest – n. a Catholic clergyman whose job is persuade others to accept Christianity

promote – v. to make people aware of something;  to make (something) more popular or  well-known

whip – n. a long, thin piece of leather or similar material that is attached to a handle and that is used for hitting a person as punishment

give a pass to – expression to stop oneself from doing something

specifically – adj. to be exact or clear

a man of his time – expression to be a product of one’s environment

well ahead of his time – expression having futuristic ideas

advocate – n. a person who works for a cause or group

indigenous – adj. native; produced, living, or existing naturally in a particular region or environment

expose – v. to make public; to reveal the crimes or mistakes of (someone)

Do you believe Junipero Serra should be named a saint? We want to hear from you. Write your thoughts in the comments section.