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St.
Peter Claver
Feast Day: September 9
Peter Claver was determined. He
knew he had to get aboard the slave ship. He had heard how badly the African
people were treated. He ignored his fear, and went up to the boat. The
guards at the ramp to the ship tried to stop him, but Peter went on board
anyway. He couldn't believe how small and cramped the inside of the ship
was. It was hot and uncomfortable. When he got inside, he was horrified.
The inside of the ship was filled with people. There were so many people
they had to sit on top of one another. There was no room for them to move
around.
They had no water for drinking or for washing. They had very little food.
Many of them were sick. All of them were frightened and sad. These people
had been taken from their homes in Africa. They were going to be sold
as slaves. They had no rights. They were treated worse than animals. Peter
knew this was wrong. He would find a way to help.
Peter Claver was born in 1581. During his lifetime, he struggled to protect
people that were treated unfairly. Peter tended to the sick slaves that
were forced to travel on crowded boats. He also baptized them and reminded
them that God loved them. Many people tried to stop Peter. But, he kept
up with his work. He was a very brave man.
Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
Grade 4, chapter 20
Connecting to Faith First®
Grade 4, chapter 20
