Life of Vaz published prior to his canonization

Blessed Joseph Vaz was born in Benaulim in Goa.

India:  A short biography of Blessed Joseph Vaz was published in his home state of Goa ahead of Pope Francis canonizing him in Sri Lanka on Wednesday.

The book titled, "Here I Am Lord, The Life and Mission of Jose Vaz" is written by Salesian Father Banzelao Teixeira. It was published last week.

Father Vaz evangelized the Island nation when it was under Calvinist Dutch colonial rule facing severe persecution and fighting ill health and threats. He is scheduled to be canonized Wednesday in Colombo by Pope Francis.

Blessed Joseph Vaz was born in Benaulim in Goa and is the patron of the Salesian Province of Panjim.

In this booklet, the author gives a dramatic account of Blessed Vaz?s life which still inspires and motivates Christians and missionaries more than 300 years after his death.

Bl. Joseph Vaz was born on 21 April 1651 to Konkani Christian parents, Christopher Vaz and Maria de Miranda. He was ordained a priest in 1676.

Having learned of the condition of Catholics in Sri Lanka, then Ceylon, being persecuted by the Dutch, he wanted to work in that country. Disguised as coolies, he and his helper reached the port of Tuticorin on Easter 1687, and under the guise of beggars, went around looking for Catholics.

When Joseph Vaz's identity came to light, he had to go through great pain and suffering - imprisonments and betrayals. He died on 16 January 1711 in Kandy.

Source: Don Bosco India website