Saint Junípero was adopted as the patron saint of Serra by the original founders. He was a Spanish Franciscan priest, born in 1713. He became a missionary to America, baptized thousands to the Catholic faith, and founded missions throughout Mexico and California. Saint Junípero died in 1784 at age 70 and was buried in Carmel, California. He was canonized by Pope Francis in 2015, in Washington, D.C. His statue represents California in the United Stated Capitol Building.

For more information see Catholic.org St. Saint Junípero.