Blessed Lorenzo Pérez Porras

Biography

Blessed Lorenzo Pérez Porras, also known as Blessed Lorenzo of Puente Genil, was a Catholic priest who served in the diocese of Córdoba, Spain, specifically in the community of Puente Genil. He was born on September 5, 1871, in Rute, a town located in the province of Córdoba.

Lorenzo Pérez Porras dedicated his life to the service of God and the people of his community. He was known for his strong faith, compassion, and commitment to his priestly duties. As a shepherd of souls, he tirelessly attended to the spiritual and pastoral needs of those under his care.

Tragically, Blessed Lorenzo Pérez Porras became a victim of the Spanish Civil War, a conflict marked by violence and religious persecution. On July 27, 1936, he met a martyr's death in Puente Genil, his place of service and residence. His unwavering faith and refusal to renounce his beliefs led to his ultimate sacrifice.

Over time, the memory of Blessed Lorenzo's martyrdom and his virtuous life began to resonate among the Catholic faithful. Recognizing his sanctity, Pope Francis declared him "venerable" on November 23, 2020, acknowledging the heroism and holiness of his life and death.

Then, on October 16, 2021, Pope Francis beatified Blessed Lorenzo Pérez Porras during a special ceremony at the Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción in Córdoba, Spain. The beatification recognition, presided over by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, honored Blessed Lorenzo as a model of faith, fortitude, and self-sacrifice.

While the specific representation of Blessed Lorenzo Pérez Porras is not explicitly mentioned, it is customary for saints and blessed individuals to be portrayed in artwork and icons depicting them in clerical attire, holding religious symbols, or engaged in acts of charity or martyrdom.

Each year, on July 27, the feast day of Blessed Lorenzo Pérez Porras is commemorated, allowing the faithful to pay tribute to his memory, seek his intercession, and draw inspiration from his exemplary life. His beatification has brought him closer to the faithful, as he is now recognized as a powerful intercessor and role model for those seeking to deepen their relationship with God.

Blessed Lorenzo Pérez Porras serves as a shining example of faithfulness and dedication to Christ, even in the face of persecution and hardship. His life and martyrdom continue to inspire and strengthen the faithful, encouraging them to live out their faith with unwavering commitment and love for God and their fellow human beings.