Martyred Salesians of Ciudad Real

The Martyred Salesians of Ciudad Real, also known as the Blessed Salesians of Ciudad Real, were a group of eight Salesian priests and brothers who were martyred together during the Spanish Civil War. These brave individuals were committed to their Catholic faith and devoted their lives to serving others through their religious vocation.

The names of the Martyred Salesians of Ciudad Real are as follows: Blessed Antolín Martínez y Martínez, Blessed Félix González Bustos, Blessed Isidro Muñoz Antolín, Blessed Justo Arévalo Mora, Blessed Pedro Buitrago Morales, Blessed Remigio Ángel Olalla Aldea, Blessed Urbano Corral González, and Blessed Valeriano Ruiz Peral.

On August 19, 1936, in the town of Valdepeñas, Ciudad Real, Spain, these eight Salesians were brutally executed for their faith. During the turbulent times of the Spanish Civil War, which spanned from 1936 to 1939, many religious individuals and clergy members became targets of persecution. The Martyred Salesians of Ciudad Real remained steadfast in their commitment to their religious calling, even in the face of great danger.

Their deaths served as a strong testament to their unwavering faith and dedication to God. The Martyred Salesians of Ciudad Real were known for their humility, compassion, and love for others. They valued education and worked tirelessly to provide educational opportunities for young people, particularly through their involvement in the Salesian schools and community centers.

Their beatification process began many years after their martyrdom. On April 28, 2006, Pope John Paul II issued a decree of martyrdom, officially recognizing the Martyred Salesians of Ciudad Real as martyrs for their faith. This important step was followed by their beatification on October 28, 2007, by the same pontiff. Their beatification ceremony brought attention to their selfless sacrifice and commitment to serving others, while inspiring others to live their faith with courage and devotion.

The Martyred Salesians of Ciudad Real are commemorated annually on August 19th, the day of their martyrdom.

While there may be limited information available about their specific patronages, books, images, videos, or other details, the legacy of the Martyred Salesians of Ciudad Real lives on through the example they set as courageous and faithful witnesses of Christ. Their story continues to inspire and encourage Catholics around the world to live their faith boldly and to serve others with love and compassion.