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Feast Day: August 15
Birth: August 18, 1872
Death: August 15, 1936
Blessed Agustín Hurtado Soler, also known as Father Domingo María from Alboraya, was born on August 18, 1872, in Alboraya, Valencia, Spain. He was the son of Vincent and Antonia Hurtado Soler.
As a young man, Agustín felt called to a life of service to God and joined the Franciscan Capuchin tertiaries in 1889. Deepening his commitment to the Church, he was ordained as a priest in 1890. Over the years, he also became a member of the Brothers of Our Lady of Sorrows and served several times as their secretary-general.
Blessed Agustín dedicated his life to working with young people, particularly those deemed "at risk" by societal standards. He possessed a natural talent for oratory and used his gift to inspire and guide the youth towards a virtuous life. His communication skills captivated his listeners, and he became known as a noted orator.
Unfortunately, the turbulent period of the Spanish Civil War brought about great persecution against the Catholic Church. When the hostilities escalated, Blessed Agustín found refuge in the home of a lawyer friend, hoping to escape the anti-Catholic militiamen. However, his hiding place was discovered, and he was ultimately captured.
On August 15, 1936, near the Retiro Park in Madrid, Spain, Blessed Agustín Hurtado Soler met a martyr's death. He remained steadfast in his Christian faith and willingness to die for his beliefs, even in the face of persecution.
Blessed Agustín Hurtado Soler's memory and sacrifice have been recognized through the ages. His veneration began on December 18, 2000, when Pope John Paul II issued a decree of martyrdom. This recognition culminated on March 11, 2001, when Pope John Paul II officially beatified him.
Today, Blessed Agustín serves as an inspirational figure, reminding us of the significance of selfless dedication, especially in times of adversity. His life and death continue to inspire individuals to work tirelessly for justice, for the love of God, and for the well-being of all people, particularly the marginalized and vulnerable.