MASIAS, San Juan, Peruvian monk, born in Ribera del Fresno, Badajoz, Estramadura, Spain, in 1585; died in Lima, 17 September, 1645. He was born of poor parents, who died when he was five years old, and he spent the greater part of his youth as a shepherd for his uncle who had adopted him.  

In 1619 he sailed for Peru, and in 1622, and entered the Dominican convent of Lima as a novice. He led a life of the most ascetic character, and was regarded by the people of Peru as a saint. He was appointed porter of his convent after his profession, and had charge of the distribution of alms to the poor and to strangers.  

His reputation spread over all Spanish America, and large sums were sent him from Quito, Potosí, and Mexico, for distribution among the poor. Miracles were believed to have been wrought by him, and when he fell sick of his last illness there was general consternation not only in Lima, but in Mexico.  

He is buried in the Church of Santo Domingo in Lima along with his friends and fellow Dominicans, St. Rose of Lima and St. Martín de Porras. He was beatified by Gregory XVI on 22 October 1837 and canonized by Paul VI on 28 September 1975.