Tenerife Councils Propose Brother Pedro as Co-Patron of Canary Islands

The 400th anniversary of Pedro de San José de Betancur—the first saint canonized in both the Canary Islands and Guatemala—has sparked a fresh debate about his role in society. Local councils in southern Tenerife, including Vilaflor de Chasna, Granadilla de Abona, and San Miguel de Abona, are calling for him to be named a co-patron of the Canary Islands.

Born in Vilaflor in 1626, Brother Pedro is a powerful symbol of the connection between the islands and the Americas. After working as a shepherd in his youth, he emigrated to Guatemala in the 17th century. There, he founded the Bethlehem Order, creating a pioneering social support network that included hospitals, schools for underprivileged children, and shelters. He was known for helping everyone, regardless of their background or social status.

Recent research into his family history suggests he had indigenous Gran Canarian roots, further cementing his role as a symbol of regional identity. Since his canonization by Pope John Paul II in 2002, following the recognized healing of a child, he has become a lasting icon of transatlantic solidarity.

The proposal to name him a co-patron has drawn mixed reactions. While the Guatemalan consulate in Santa Cruz de Tenerife supports the idea as a way to honor the cultural bond between the two regions, some religious groups argue that his legacy is more important than formal titles. They believe his true significance lies in his charitable work, which remains highly relevant today as society faces modern challenges like migration and poverty.

Brother Pedro died in 1667 at the age of 41, but his influence continues to span continents. Experts note that his work anticipated modern humanitarian aid. For institutions today, the challenge is to honor his memory without losing sight of the core of his legacy: a life defined by direct, selfless service to those in need.