Sts. Daniel, Samuel and Companions, first Franciscan Martyrs

Saints Daniel, Samuel, and their Companions were the first Franciscan martyrs, killed in 1227 while attempting to spread Christianity in Morocco. Daniel, a priest, led the group of six Franciscan missionaries to North Africa, where they were imprisoned and eventually executed for refusing to renounce their faith. These early Franciscan martyrs are venerated for their courage and devotion, and are the patrons of Morocco and Franciscan missionaries.