Archbishop of Peking and founder of the Catholic mission in China, born Montecorvino, Italy, 1246; died Peking, China, 1328. His early missionary work was in Persia, from which he went to India, and finally to China, 1294. In spite of the opposition of the Nestorians, he built a church at Peking and, in 1305, another opposite the royal palace. At the same time he familiarized himself with the Chinese language and translated the New Testament and the Psalms into that tongue. Pope Clement V was so pleased with his success that he sent envoys who consecrated John Archbishop of Peking, in 1308. He is honored as a saint by the Christians and heathens alike.