Blessed Dalmacio Bellota Pérez

Biography

Blessed Dalmacio Bellota Pérez, also known as Carlos Jorge, was born on 22 November 1908 in Capillas, Palencia, Spain. From a young age, Dalmacio exhibited a strong devotion to his Catholic faith and felt a calling to religious life. In pursuit of this vocation, he began his formation in the Lasallian novitiate in Bujedo, Spain, on 2 February 1925, taking the name Carlos Jorge.

After completing his novitiate, Blessed Dalmacio Bellota Pérez embarked on a teaching career. He started working at Nuestra Señora de las Maravillas College in Madrid, Spain. Sadly, this educational institution was destroyed by anti-Christian forces in a fire that ravaged the premises in 1931.

Undeterred by the setback, Carlos Jorge continued his mission of imparting knowledge and supporting young minds. He moved to the Cuevas Community in Almeria, Spain, where he took up the role of a teacher. His dedication and passion for education led him to the Chamberi School in Madrid in 1932, where he continued shaping the lives of many students.

In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Blessed Dalmacio Bellota Pérez also taught in Consuegra, Toledo, Spain. However, his commitment to his faith and his role as an educator placed him in great danger during the turbulent times of the Spanish Civil War.

On 21 July 1936, while participating in the 9 o'clock Mass, Carlos Jorge, along with the other Lasallian Brothers in his community, was arrested by anti-Christian militants. They were targeted for their unwavering commitment to their faith and their dedication to forming the youth of Spain. Despite the challenging circumstances, Blessed Dalmacio Bellota Pérez remained steadfast in his faith and accepted his fate with grace and courage.

Over the night of 6 to 7 August 1936, in "Boca del Congosto," Los Yébenes, Toledo, Spain, Blessed Dalmacio Bellota Pérez was martyred for his allegiance to Christ. He became one of the countless victims of the Spanish Civil War, a beacon of faith sacrificing his life for his beliefs.

In recognition of his martyrdom, Pope Benedict XVI venerated Blessed Dalmacio Bellota Pérez on 28 April 2006, declaring the decree of martyrdom. Later, on 28 October 2007, Pope Benedict XVI beatified him, acknowledging his heroic witness to the Catholic faith.

Blessed Dalmacio Bellota Pérez, through his unwavering commitment to his beliefs and selfless dedication to education, serves as a role model for educators and believers alike. His life reminds us of the importance of living our faith with courage and integrity, even in the face of great adversity. On 7 August each year, we commemorate his feast day and honor his memory as a blessed martyr of the Spanish Civil War.