Saint José María Robles Hurtado

Biography

Saint José María Robles Hurtado, also known as Jose Maria Robles and Josef Maria Robles, was born on 3 May 1888 in Mascota, Jalisco, Mexico. He came from a deeply religious family, the son of Antonio Robles and Petronila Hurtado. From a young age, he displayed a strong interest in the priesthood, and at the age of 12, he entered the seminary of Guadalajara. After years of rigorous study and formation, José María was ordained as a priest on 22 March 1913 at the age of 25. His ordination took place at the seminary in Guadalajara, marking the beginning of his fruitful ministry. One significant aspect of St. José María Robles' life was his consecration to the Sacred Eucharistic Heart of Jesus. This devotion laid the foundation for his subsequent spiritual journey and inspired him to establish the Congregation of Victims of the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus (Hermanas del Corazón de Jesús Sacramentado) in 1918. Based in Nochistlán, Zacatecas, Mexico, the congregation focused on pastoral care, healthcare, education, assistance to orphanages, and conducting missions. Over time, it became known as the Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which continues its important work to this day. In 1920, Father José María Robles served as a parish priest in Tocolotlán. Unfortunately, this was a period marked by severe persecutions against the Church due to the Mexican Revolution. As priests were outlawed, the parishioners implored Father José to flee for his safety. However, he could not abandon his people and refused to leave Tocolotlán. His unwavering dedication to his flock would ultimately lead to his martyrdom. On 25 June 1927, he was arrested for presiding at Mass in private homes, an act considered illegal during that time. Father José remained committed to his faith even in the face of persecution. The following day, soldiers broke into the make-shift altar where he was conducting Mass and apprehended him. Saint José María Robles Hurtado was subsequently hanged from an oak tree. Astonishingly, with characteristic grace, he blessed and forgave his captors, kissed and blessed the rope, and firmly placed it around his own neck so that his executioners would not be the ones responsible for his murder. Saint José María Robles Hurtado is counted as one of the Martyrs of the Cristera War, a period of intense violence against the Catholic Church in Mexico. His courage, faithfulness, and ultimate sacrifice have served as an example of steadfast devotion and love for God. After his death, Saint José María's relics found a venerated resting place in the church at Tecolotlán. His martyrdom was officially recognized on 7 March 1992, with a decree of martyrdom issued by Pope John Paul II. Subsequently, he was beatified by the same pope on 22 November 1992. Finally, on 21 May 2000, during the Jubilee of Mexico, Pope John Paul II canonized him, affirming his status as a saint in the Catholic Church. While Saint José María Robles Hurtado does not have an official patronage, his life of sacrifice and commitment to the faith continues to inspire countless individuals to stand firm in their beliefs even in the face of adversity. His feast days are celebrated on 26 June and 21 May as one of the Martyrs of the Mexican Revolution.