Juan Alejo De Arizmendi

Arizmendi studied in the convent of the Dominican Frays in San Juan. He then went to Caracas, Venezuela where he studied Canonic and Civil Law. He earned his Doctorate degree in the Dominican Republic and on July 16 , 1785 , he was ordinated a priest.

In 1803 , the King of Spain , Carlos III , made a petition to the Catholic Church, to have Arizmendi named Bishop. On March 25 , 1804 Pope Pius VII consecrated Arizmendi, Bishop of San Juan.

Upon his return to Puerto Rico, Arizmendi dedicated himself to charity. He was especially interested in helping the poor and needy. Arizmendi financially supported the Hospital of the Conception of San Juan, with money from his own pockets. During his free time, he would make castles out of straws and sell them. He would then use the money to buy clothes, food and other items for the poor. Arizmendi, took it upon himself to nurse and to take care of the sick. He was the founder of the Concellor Seminary in San Juan.

Arizmendi was also a patriot with liberal thoughts. He was a stern supporter of in his heart.

Arizmendi was immortalized by Jose Campeche in a painting in 1803.

Bishop Juan Alejo de Arizmendi died in the City of Arecibo, Puerto Rico on October 12, 1814. His remains are in the Cathedral Of San Juan , in Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico has honored Arizmendi's memory by naming schools and avenues after him. The University Of Puerto Rico has an Institute of Historic Studies Juan Alejo de Arizmendi. The Church also has a medal called the "Bishop Juan Alejo de Arizmendi Medal".

SEE ALSO

List Of Famous Puerto Ricans

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Juan Alejo De Arizmendi