MASSIAS, JUAN, blessed. – Dominican, born at Ribera (Plasencia) on 2 March 1585, died at Lima on 17 September 1645. Moved by the desire to feel increasingly a stranger on earth, he departed for Peru (1620), and there, after two years, donned the habit of the lay brothers at the Convent of S. Maria Maddalena in Lima (23 January 1622). Throughout his life he served as porter at that same convent.
An example of every virtue, he edified all who knew him. A friend of the poor, he willingly conversed with them, seeking every means of relieving them from their misery. Endowed with the gift of discerning spirits and with rare prudence, he was an enlightened counsellor. A lover of penance, he ardently desired martyrdom. He worked miracles in life and in death. He was a close friend of b. Martino de Porres. His cult was approved by Gregorio XVI (22 October 1837). Feast day: 18 September.