Blessed José Franco Ruiz

Biography

Blessed José Franco Ruiz, also known as Brother Máximo, was born on March 24, 1906, in Sotragero, Burgos, Spain. He was the eldest of 14 siblings born into a devout Catholic family. His parents, whose names are not provided, raised him in a deeply religious environment, imparting upon him a strong faith from an early age.

Little is known about José's early years, but it is known that he was baptized just one day after his birth and received the sacrament of confirmation on September 18, 1910. These early sacraments would lay the foundation for his future vocation and commitment to his faith.

Upon reaching adulthood, José felt a calling to dedicate his life to God and joined the Congregation of San Pedro ad Vincula on May 22, 1926. Within the congregation, he found a community of like-minded individuals who shared his passion for serving others and spreading the message of God's love.

José's commitment to his vocation led him to take his final vows on September 24, 1932, fully dedicating himself to a life of religious service. He was assigned the role of a school teacher in Barcelona, Spain, where he tirelessly worked to educate and nurture the minds and souls of his students.

Sadly, during the turbulent times of the Spanish Civil War, José's service and devotion to his faith would make him a target of persecution. As the conflict escalated, militant forces began targeting religious figures, including priests, nuns, and brothers like José.

Tragically, on the fateful night of July 26, 1936, José was apprehended by militiamen and imprisoned. Recognizing his unwavering commitment to his beliefs, he was subjected to a sham trial and condemned to execution for his faith.

In the early morning hours of July 27, 1936, around 3 am, José was led to the banks of the Llobregat River in PallejÖ, near Barcelona, Spain, where he faced his martyrdom. He bravely embraced his fate, remaining steadfast in his faith until the very end.

Years later, on December 18, 2017, Pope Francis officially recognized José's martyrdom, decreeing his veneration as a Blessed. This declaration was further commemorated on November 10, 2018, when Pope Francis presided over the beatification ceremony in the Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. The ceremony was conducted by Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, recognizing Blessed José Franco Ruiz's supreme sacrifice for his faith and his dedication to serving God and others.

Blessed José Franco Ruiz, known affectionately as Brother Máximo, stands as a shining example of unwavering faith, devotion, and selflessness. His life serves as an inspiration for all those who seek to emulate his passion for service, education, and the pursuit of God's love in the face of adversity.