Blessed Máximo Aranda Modrego

Biography

Blessed Máximo Aranda Modrego, also known as Justo Pastor, was a devout Monk and a devoted member of the Marist Brothers of the Schools. He was born on 3 August 1907 in a town called Gallur, located in Zaragoza, Spain.

Blessed Máximo Aranda Modrego lived during a tumultuous period in Spanish history, the Spanish Civil War. It was a time of political unrest and religious persecution, where many individuals dedicated to their faith paid the ultimate price for their beliefs. Máximo was no exception to this tragic fate.

As a Marist Brother, Máximo dedicated his life to serving God and educating young minds. Known for his exceptional devotion to the teachings of the Catholic Church, Máximo was admired for his wisdom and compassion. He strove to instill Christian values in his students, helping them grow spiritually and academically.

Unfortunately, during the Spanish Civil War, religious communities like the Marist Brothers became targets for persecution. Máximo, along with many of his fellow brethren, faced immense danger and hardship. Despite the risks, he remained steadfast in his commitment to his faith.

On 8 September 1936, in the city of Barcelona, Spain, Blessed Máximo Aranda Modrego met a tragic end, martyred for his unwavering devotion to the Catholic Church. He was brutally executed in the midst of the civil war, becoming one of the countless victims of religious persecution during that period.

In recognition of his selfless sacrifice for the cause of Christianity, Máximo Aranda Modrego was later venerated and declared a Blessed by Pope Francis on 13 October 2013. His beatification ceremony took place on that day, acknowledging his exemplary life of faith and martyrdom as an inspiration for Catholics around the world.

Blessed Máximo Aranda Modrego's feast day is celebrated on 8 September, the anniversary of his martyrdom. On this day, Catholics honor his memory and seek his intercession for strength in their own spiritual journeys.

As a beloved Monk and Marist Brother, Blessed Máximo Aranda Modrego left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church, inspiring countless individuals to stand firm in their beliefs, even in the face of adversity. His life serves as a testament to the power of faith and the enduring resilience of those who choose to follow Christ, no matter the cost.