Martyred Salesians of Valencia

Biography

The Martyred Salesians of Valencia were a group of five individuals who were devout members of the Salesians of Don Bosco, a Catholic religious congregation founded by Saint John Bosco. These five individuals included four priests and a cleric who dedicated their lives to the service of others, particularly the youth. They were all martyred together during the Spanish Civil War, which took place from 1936 to 1939 and resulted in the persecution of Catholics and other religious groups.

The members of this group were:

1. Blessed Agustín García Calvo: A priest and member of the Salesians of Don Bosco. He was born on May 20, 1893, in Chamartín de los Montes, Palencia, Spain.

2. Blessed Antonio Martín Hernández: Another priest of the Salesians of Don Bosco. He was born on November 14, 1902, in Cadalso de los Vidrios, Madrid, Spain.

3. Blessed José Giménez López: A Salesian priest who devoted himself to the education and spiritual guidance of young people. He was born on September 9, 1902, in El Villar de Arnedo, La Rioja, Spain.

4. Blessed Julián Rodríguez Sánchez: A Salesian priest known for his dedication to serving others and spreading the message of the Gospel. He was born on May 21, 1907, in Oviedo, Asturias, Spain.

5. Blessed Recaredo de Los Ríos Fabregat: A cleric and member of the Salesians of Don Bosco, who was in the process of becoming a priest. He was born on July 28, 1913, in Benaguasil, Valencia, Spain.

On December 9, 1936, these five members of the Salesians of Don Bosco faced martyrdom together in Picadero de Paterna, Valencia, Spain, during the Spanish Civil War. They were faithful to their religious beliefs until the end, bravely enduring persecution and sacrificing their lives for their faith.

Their exemplary Christian witness and commitment to the service of God and others led to their recognition as martyrs. On December 20, 1999, Pope John Paul II acknowledged their martyrdom by decree. Later, on March 11, 2001, Pope John Paul II beatified them, officially recognizing their sanctity and elevating them to the rank of Blessed within the Catholic Church.

The Martyred Salesians of Valencia, now known as the Blessed Martyred Salesians of Valencia, serve as an inspiration and intercessors for all those who face persecution and adversity due to their faith. Their feast day is celebrated on December 9th, during which many faithful remember their courageous witness and pray for their intercession.

May the Blessed Martyred Salesians of Valencia continue to inspire us in our commitment to God and the service of others, reminding us of the profound sacrifice and unwavering faith of these holy individuals who remain a testament to the enduring power of the Gospel.