Rafael Cordero

Rafael Cordero y Molina (October 24, 1790 – July 5, 1868), sometimes known as "Maestro Cordero", was a self-educated Puerto Rican who provided free schooling to the children of his city regardless of race or social standing.

In 2003, the Catholic Church began the process of Cordero's beatification. In 2013, Pope Francis recognized him as Venerable.

Early years Cordero was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, then part of the Viceroyalty of New Spain, into a low-income family. He was one of three children, born to Lucas Cordero and Rita Molina. His two older sisters were Gregoria and Celestina. His father worked in the tobacco fields, while his mother tended the house. Cordero, who was of African ancestry, was self-educated. His love of literature and his determination to teach others and educate himself helped him develop the skills and preparation to teach primary school. Cordero received the sacrament of Confirmation at the age of 14 from Bishop Juan Alejo de Arizmendi (1760–1814), the first native bishop of the island. He grew up and lived his life as a devout Catholic. In 1802, his older sister Celestina, also a pious Catholic, established a "escuela de amigas" for girls on the island.

Career In 1826 Cordero established a free school for all the children in his house. He taught children regardless of their race and those who could not afford an education otherwise. There, he taught reading, calligraphy, mathematics, and religious instruction. and a Junior High School in Brooklyn, New York.

In 2003 the Holy See accepted the local investigations ordered by the Archbishop of San Juan, Roberto González Nieves, OFM, for further study in the process for Cordero's beatification. On December 9, 2013, Pope Francis advanced the cause for Cordero when he declared that Cordero had practised heroic virtue and has been declared venerable.

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