Buenaventura Sitjar facts for kids

Buenaventura Sitjar was a Franciscan missionary from Spain. He was born on December 9, 1739, in Porreres, Majorca. He spent many years serving in California until his death on September 3, 1808, in San Antonio, California.

Becoming a Missionary

Buenaventura Sitjar decided to become a monk in April 1758. He joined a special training center called the College of San Fernando de Mexico. This college prepared missionaries to serve in new lands.

In 1770, he received orders to travel to California. He arrived in San Diego on May 21, 1771. This was a long journey by sea.

Serving at Mission San Antonio

Father Sitjar helped establish Mission San Antonio de Padua. This mission was a religious settlement built by Spanish missionaries. He served there for the rest of his life, until he passed away in 1808.

During his time at the mission, he helped baptize about 3,400 Native Americans. Baptism is a Christian ceremony that welcomes people into the church. These Native Americans were often called Mission Indians.

Learning Languages

Father Sitjar was very good at learning languages. He became fluent in the local Native American language. This language was part of the Salinan language family. It was known by several names, including Antoniaño, Telamé, or Sextapay. The name Sextapay came from the area where it was spoken.

He worked with another priest, Father Miguel Pieras. Together, they wrote a dictionary for the language. This dictionary translated the Native American words into Spanish. It helped others understand and communicate with the local people.

While another missionary, Felipe Arroyo de la Cuesta, wrote a longer dictionary, Sitjar's work was special. His dictionary included how to pronounce the words. It also gave more detailed explanations. This important work was later published in a book series. It was also released separately as Vocabulary of the Language of the San Antonio Missions in 1863.

Other Activities

In 1795, Father Sitjar also kept a journal. This journal recorded his experiences on an exploring trip. These expeditions helped map new areas.

Two years later, in 1797, he helped establish another mission. This was Mission San Miguel Arcángel.

When he died, Father Sitjar was buried at Mission San Antonio de Padua. His body rests in the mission's sanctuary, which is the sacred part of the church.