Blessed Serviliano Riaño Herrero

Biography

Blessed Serviliano Riaño Herrero, also known as Serviliano of Prioro, was a professed cleric in the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, who was martyred during the Spanish Civil War. He is honored as one of the Oblate Martyrs of the Spanish Civil War.

Serviliano Riaño Herrero was born on April 20, 1916, in Prioro, León, Spain. From a young age, he showed deep devotion to the Catholic faith and a calling to serve God as a religious. He joined the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, a congregation dedicated to missionary work and evangelization.

As a member of the Oblates, Serviliano Riaño Herrero embraced a life of prayer, study, and ministry. He wholeheartedly dedicated himself to the spiritual welfare of others, seeking to bring the love and hope of Christ to those he encountered. His zeal for the Gospel motivated him to serve in various apostolic missions, particularly in his homeland of Spain.

Tragically, during the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, the faithful were persecuted for their religious beliefs. Serviliano, along with many other Oblates and Catholics, became a target of persecution for remaining steadfast in their faith. Despite the dangers and threats he faced, Serviliano refused to renounce his Christian beliefs and continued to openly profess his faith.

On November 7, 1936, in Soto de Aldovea, Torrejón de Ardoz, Madrid, Serviliano Riaño Herrero was martyred for his unwavering commitment to Catholicism. He sacrificed his life rather than betray his faith, becoming a martyr for religious freedom and the Church.

Serviliano Riaño Herrero's witness to Christ's love and his heroic perseverance in the face of persecution have left an indelible mark on the Church. His life serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless faithful during challenging times.

Recognizing his exceptional holiness and martyrdom, Pope Benedict XVI declared Serviliano Riaño Herrero venerable on April 2, 2011, and subsequently beatified him on December 17, 2011. The Church celebrates his feast day on November 7, and also commemorates him on November 28 as one of the Oblate Martyrs of the Spanish Civil War.

Blessed Serviliano Riaño Herrero's memory continues to inspire Catholics worldwide, urging them to stand firm in their faith and to embrace the selflessness and courage exhibited by the martyrs who gave their lives for the sake of Christ and His Church.