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Feast Day: June 1
Birth: September 21, 1571
Death: June 1, 1
Blessed Alfonso Navarretebenito, also known as Alfonsus Navarrete, Alphonso Navarrete, and Alphonsus de Mena, was born on September 21, 1571, in Logroño, Spain. He was a Dominican priest who dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel and serving the Church.
In 1578, Alfonso Navarretebenito embarked on a missionary journey to the Philippines. There, he tirelessly worked to evangelize the local population, sharing the teachings of the Catholic faith and establishing a strong Christian community. His efforts were met with great success, as many hundreds of people converted to Christianity under his guidance.
In 1610, Alfonso Navarretebenito returned to Europe to recruit more missionaries, recognizing the need for a continued expansion of the Church's presence in distant lands. The following year, in 1611, he returned to the Orient, this time as a missionary and Dominican provincial vicar in Japan.
In Japan, Alfonso Navarretebenito continued his evangelization work, focusing on spreading the Gospel and strengthening the local Christian communities. However, this period in Japan was marked by intense persecution against Christians. Despite the risks, Alfonso Navarretebenito remained steadfast in his faith and commitment to the Church.
On June 1, 1617, tragedy struck when Alfonso Navarretebenito was captured and beheaded in Koguchi, Omura, Nagasaki, Japan, as a martyr for his unwavering dedication to the Catholic faith. He joined the ranks of the 205 Martyrs of Japan, who gave their lives for their beliefs.
Recognizing his sacrifice and holiness, Alfonso Navarretebenito was venerated on February 26, 1866, by Blessed Pope Pius IX. The following year, on May 7, 1867, he was beatified by the same pope.
Blessed Alfonso Navarretebenito is remembered for his tireless missionary work, his fervent commitment to spreading Christianity in the Philippines and Japan, and his ultimate sacrifice as a martyr. His feast days are celebrated on June 1, September 10 (as one of the 205 Martyrs of Japan), and November 6 (as one of the Martyrs of the Far East, recognized by the Dominicans).
Alfonso Navarretebenito's life and example serve as an inspiration to Christians, reminding them of the importance of faith, perseverance, and dedication to the Gospel message even in the face of adversity.