Blessed Sabino Hernández Laso

Biography

Blessed Sabino Hernández Laso, born on 11 December 1886, in Villamor de los Escuderos, Zamora, Spain, was a devoted member of the Salesians of Don Bosco. He embarked on his religious journey by joining the order's novitiate in Carabanchel Alto, Madrid, Spain. Following his period of formation, Sabino made his solemn profession in Campelio, Spain on 6 January 1914.

Filled with a deep commitment to serving God and his fellow human beings, Sabino was ordained a priest on 23 December 1916. Throughout his ministry, he dedicated himself to the spiritual, intellectual, and moral formation of young people, in alignment with the charism of the Salesian order. His great love and understanding of the teachings of St. John Bosco made him an effective educator and mentor to many.

Unfortunately, the turmoil of the Spanish Civil War would soon engulf Spain, leading to a period of intense persecution against the Catholic Church. Sabino, being a priest, became a target for the political forces opposed to the Church. In the climate of hostility and religious intolerance, he was martyred for the mere offense of being a priest.

On 18 July 1936, in Madrid, Spain, Sabino Hernández Laso was brutally shot, giving his life in witness to his faith and dedication to the priesthood. His selfless and courageous sacrifice remains an inspiration to Catholics throughout Spain and beyond.

Recognizing his holiness and martyrdom, Pope Benedict XVI venerated Blessed Sabino Hernández Laso on 26 June 2006, through a decree of martyrdom. Later, on 28 October 2007, Pope Benedict XVI beatified him, acknowledging the heroic virtue and supreme act of faith that unfolded within Sabino's life and death.

Blessed Sabino Hernández Laso's feast day is celebrated on 18 July each year, commemorating his martyrdom and inviting the faithful to honor his memory and seek his intercession. As a Salesian priest and martyr, he serves as a model of fidelity and unwavering commitment to the Church, reminding all Catholics of the ultimate sacrifice some have made in defense of their faith.