Conquest of the Americas

When twelve barefoot Franciscans led by Martin de Valencia began marching two hundred and seventy miles from the coastal road of Vera Cruz to Mexico City, they carried a cross, not bladed weapons of war. They had come to fight a spiritual war. Their desire was to conquer Mexico and the heathen natives. Their apostolic mandate was to convert the pagans worshipping hideous idols and performing rites violative of what is true, good and beautiful.

As they traversed the hard stony paths they were met by hostile but curious men ready to defend their homes and their people but when the invading forces met then only with smiles, soft words and acts of kindness, they were won over. They laid down their bladed weapons and welcomed these small group of white missionaries spreading among them the word of Christ, healing their sick and helping them in...
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