Blessed Anastasio Garzón González

Biography

Blessed Anastasio Garzón González, also known as Anastasio de Madrigal, was a devoted member of the Salesians of Don Bosco. He was born on September 7, 1908, in Madrigal de las Altas Torres, Ávila, Spain. From a young age, Anastasio displayed a deep love for his faith and a profound desire to serve God's people.

In 1929, Anastasio took his vows as a Salesian and embarked on a journey of religious formation in Italy. During this time, he also studied mechanics, which would greatly influence his future work. His dedication to both his religious and academic pursuits was evident, earning him the trust and admiration of his fellow Salesians.

After completing his studies, Anastasio returned to Spain and was appointed to supervise a mechanics laboratory in the college of Madrid. He embraced this role with enthusiasm, using his skills to mentor and guide young students in the field of mechanics. Through his work, he not only imparted technical knowledge but also shared his profound faith and commitment to the teachings of Don Bosco.

However, Anastasio's life and promising future were tragically cut short due to the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War. In the midst of the conflict, he faced immense persecution for his religious beliefs. On November 9, 1936, Anastasio was cruelly martyred in Paracuellos de Jarama, Madrid, Spain.

His unwavering faith and steadfast commitment to the Salesian mission left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Anastasio's life exemplified the virtues of selflessness, dedication, and love for God and his fellow human beings. Recognizing his extraordinary sacrifice, Pope Benedict XVI declared him venerable on June 26, 2006, with a decree of martyrdom.

On October 28, 2007, Pope Benedict XVI further honored Anastasio by beatifying him, bestowing upon him the title of Blessed Anastasio Garzón González. It is through his beatification that the Catholic Church recognizes Anastasio's holiness and holds him up as a role model for all believers.

Every year on November 9th, the Church celebrates the feast day of Blessed Anastasio Garzón González. On this day, the faithful gather to commemorate his selfless life, seeking his intercession and drawing inspiration from his devotion to God and his fellow Salesians.

Blessed Anastasio's life serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals during times of turmoil and persecution. His profound faith and unwavering dedication to his vocation continue to inspire and guide generations of believers, reminding us all of the importance of living out our faith with courage and love.