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Feast Day: October 23
Birth: May 9, 1933
Death: October 1, 23
Blessed María Caridad Álvarez Martín, born on 9 May 1933 in Santa Cruz de Salceda, Burgos, Spain, was the daughter of Sotera Martín and Constantino Álvarez. She felt a deep calling to serve God and others from a young age.
In 1955, María joined the Augustinian Missionary Sisters, embracing a life dedicated to love, service, and the teachings of Christ. On 3 May 1960, she made her perpetual vows, committing herself fully to the religious life. María's faith and compassion led her to embark on a remarkable mission to Algeria, where she spent more than 30 years serving the poor and elderly.
During her time in Algeria, María tirelessly worked to alleviate suffering and bring hope to those in need. She selflessly dedicated herself to the people, providing support, care, and love to the marginalized and forgotten. Her commitment to social justice and her willingness to face the challenges of poverty and deprivation set her apart as a shining example of faith in action.
Tragically, on Sunday, 23 October 1994, María's life was cut short by an act of senseless violence. While walking to Mass in Bab-el-Oued, Algiers, she was brutally murdered by Muslim fundamentalists affiliated with the Armed Islamic Group. María's death reflects her unwavering dedication to her faith and her unwavering commitment to serve others, even in the face of great danger.
María Caridad Álvarez Martín's impact and sacrifice did not go unnoticed within the Catholic Church. Her life and martyrdom were recognized and venerated on 26 January 2018 by Pope Francis, through a decree of martyrdom. This official acknowledgment by the Church signifies her heroic virtue and commitment to the Gospel.
Continuing the recognition of her sanctity, María was beatified by Pope Francis on 8 December 2018. This beatification serves as an invitation to Catholics and people of goodwill to seek her intercession and emulate her example of selflessness, love, and devotion to God and neighbor.
María Caridad Álvarez Martín's feast day is celebrated on 23 October, the day of her martyrdom. On this day, the faithful are encouraged to reflect upon her life, seek her intercession, and draw inspiration from her courage in the face of adversity.
Blessed María Caridad Álvarez Martín stands as a powerful witness to the transformative power of love, charity, and unyielding faith. Her life serves as an inspiration to all those seeking to live a life of genuine selflessness, compassion, and devotion to God and his people. As she strives for sainthood, her legacy continues to touch the hearts and souls of countless individuals around the world.