Blessed Florentín Felipe Naya

Biography

Blessed Florentín Felipe Naya, also known as Florentín of Saint Francis Borgia, was born on 10 October 1856 in Alquézar, Huesca, Spain. He was the son of Miguel Felipe and Francisca Naya, and he was baptized on the same day of his birth.

At the age of 20, Florentín entered the Piarist novitiate on 27 February 1876 in Paralta de la Sal, Spain, and he became a lay brother. After years of dedicated service and formation, he made his solemn profession on 29 April 1883, reaffirming his commitment to the Piarist order.

For over 50 years, Blessed Florentín served tirelessly in the kitchens and schools of various Piarist houses in the region of Aragon, Spain. He devoted himself to the well-being of others, especially children, as he fulfilled his duties with humility and compassion. His dedication to the Piarist mission played a crucial role in the formation and education of countless students, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

In his later years, when Florentín's eyesight began to diminish and his hearing started to fade, he retired from active service. Despite these physical challenges, he chose to spend the remaining years of his life in prayer, cultivating a profound spiritual life. Through his contemplative devotion, Blessed Florentín continued to inspire others with his unwavering faith and commitment to the Piarist charism.

During the turbulent years of the Spanish Civil War, martyrdom befell Blessed Florentín Naya. On the afternoon of 9 August 1936, he was shot in Azanuy, Huesca, Spain. His persecutors, in a terrible act of desecration, doused his body with gasoline and set it on fire. Despite the brutal manner of his death, his steadfast allegiance to his faith remained unwavering.

After his martyrdom, Florentín's remains were buried in Azanuy, where he was laid to rest in a final resting place that later became a site of veneration for his faithful followers. The recognition of his martyrdom came on 15 December 1994 when Pope John Paul II decreed his martyrdom. On 1 October 1995, the same Pope beatified him, acknowledging his heroic sacrifice and his exemplary Christian life.

Blessed Florentín Felipe Naya is remembered for his selfless dedication to the Piarist order, his service to others, and his unwavering faith even in the face of persecution. His life and martyrdom serve as an inspiration for all, encouraging us to remain steadfast in our beliefs and to live a life of love and service to others.