PALAFOX y MENDOZA, JUAN. — Bishop and theologian, b. at Fitero (Navarra) on 24 June 1600, d. at Osma (Spain) on 1 Oct. 1659.
After completing his studies at Salamanca, he was appointed by Philip IV as a member of the Council of War and the Indies; in 1629 he entered the ecclesiastical career, and on 27 Dec. 1639 was consecrated bishop of Puebla de los Angeles or Angelopoli (Mexico). From June 1640 to 2 Nov. 1642 he also held the office of viceroy and was able to repress numerous administrative abuses. He founded a seminary, had more than 50 churches and several hospitals restored at his own expense, supported the cause of the Indians, and reformed morals. He came into conflict with certain missionaries, especially the Jesuits, over questions of jurisdiction. The controversy assumed a sensational character, and P. sent five proceedings against them to Rome. Rome resolved the matter in such a way as to pacify the parties and avoid exaggerations on either side, imposing silence on the question. In any event, on 23 June 1653 P. was transferred to the diocese of Osma. In 1726 his canonization process was initiated; after the approval of his writings (28 Feb. 1777), it was suspended indefinitely, because the cause appeared to be too strongly promoted by the Jesuits’ adversaries and contrary to the interests of the Church.
In addition to his polemical writings, P. is also known for his ascetical works, discourses, and pastoral letters (Obras, 8 vols., Madrid 1659-68; 12 vols., there 1762).