Blessed Ángel Marina Álvarez

Biography

Blessed Ángel Marina Álvarez, also known as Ángel Marina, was a Dominican friar and Catholic martyr who devoted his life to the service of God and the Church. He was born on 28 March 1890 in Barruelo de los Carabeos, Santander, Spain. Inspired by a profound sense of faith, Ángel Marina joined the Dominican Order and took the habit in the church of Santísimo Rosario in Almagro, Ciudad Real, Spain on 3 October 1906. He made his profession as a Dominican friar on 9 October 1907.

Having a strong desire to deepen his knowledge and spirituality, Ángel Marina pursued his studies at Almagro for the next ten years. His dedication and commitment to his vocation were evident, and he was ordained a priest on 21 September 1916. As a priest, Ángel Marina embraced the missionary call and set out for Venezuela and Cuba to share the Gospel and serve the people in need.

Ángel Marina's ministry was marked by his selflessness and compassion. He tirelessly worked to alleviate the suffering of others, particularly the poor and marginalized. His love for the Dominican Order led him to serve as the prior of his house, setting an example of leadership and devotion to his fellow friars.

Tragically, during the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, Ángel Marina became a victim of religious persecution. His unwavering faith and commitment to his Christian beliefs led to his martyrdom. On 14 August 1936, he was martyred in El Picado, Almagro, Ciudad Real, Spain.

In recognition of his heroic virtues and the ultimate sacrifice he made for his faith, Ángel Marina Álvarez was beatified on 18 June 2022, by Pope Francis. The beatification ceremony took place at the Cathedral of Santa María de la Sede in Sevilla, Spain, and was presided over by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro. Ángel Marina's relics are now enshrined in the church of Santo Tomás de Aquino in Seville, where the faithful can honor and seek his intercession.

This faithful Dominican friar and martyr, Blessed Ángel Marina Álvarez, serves as a shining example of dedication to God and the Church. Through his beatification, his life and legacy continue to inspire others to live a life of faith, love, and selflessness.