Juan de Padilla was born in 1500 and was a soldier before he became a first his skin fryer before one became a Franciscan Friar he was a soldier. He was in a position of authority in the Franciscan order but knew God was calling him to a deeper need, that of outreach and education. He went to New Mexico in 1540 to colonize and evangelize. Following the expeditions ahead of him, which were mainly aimed at getting riches, Juan one was different and wanted to be a missionary. He was known for being authentic, kind, gentle, full of zeal for the way of life God had given him, and completely devoted to winning souls for the kingdom of God. The Franciscan priest became interested in a prisoner of an Indian tribe. This prisoner was willing to exchange
