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Blessed José Prieto Fuentes

Blessed

Martyr

Post-Congregation

Feast Day: 28 Noember

Born: 14 May 1913 in Valleluengo, Zamora, Spain

Died: 28 November 1936 in Paracuellos de Jarama, Madrid, Spain

Beatified: 28 October 2007 by Pope Benedict XVI

Venerated: 26 June 2006 by Pope Benedict XVI (decree of martyrdom)

Biography

Blessed José Prieto Fuentes, also known as José María, was a Dominican friar who met a tragic end during the Spanish Civil War. He was born on May 14, 1913, in the small town of Valleluengo, located in the province of Zamora, Spain. From a young age, José displayed a strong inclination towards the priesthood and a deep devotion to the Catholic faith.

Recognizing his calling, José entered the Dominican Order and was ordained a priest. He dedicated himself to a life of prayer, study, and service to others, following in the footsteps of Saint Dominic. José's compassionate heart led him to minister primarily to the poor and marginalized members of society, striving to bring them comfort, hope, and the love of Christ.

Sadly, the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War in 1936 engulfed the country in a wave of violence, with religious persecution becoming a prominent feature. As a result, many clergy members, including José, became targets due to their faith and commitment to the Church. On November 28, 1936, in the midst of this turbulent period, José María Prieto Fuentes was martyred in Paracuellos de Jarama, a town near Madrid.

José's strong faith and unwavering dedication to his vocation made him a witness to the Gospel until his final moments. His martyrdom was recognized by Pope Benedict XVI on June 26, 2006, with the decree of martyrdom, acknowledging the ultimate sacrifice José made for his faith. This holy recognition led to his beatification on October 28, 2007, an official acknowledgment of his sanctity and the exceptional model he provided for the faithful.

Blessed José Prieto Fuentes serves as an inspiration to all, particularly those facing persecution and adversity due to their religious beliefs. As a Dominican friar, he exemplified the virtues of his order, particularly the pursuit of truth and love for God and neighbor. His feast day is celebrated on November 28, commemorating the day he was called to eternal life and the crown of martyrdom. May his intercession guide and strengthen all those seeking to live out their faith courageously in challenging times.