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Feast Day: August 22
Birth: October 27, 1879
Death: August 22, 1936
Blessed Andrés Vicente Helguera Muñoz, also known as Blessed Andrés Vicente, was a Catholic priest in the diocese of Córdoba, Spain. He was born on October 27, 1879, in Belalcázar, Córdoba, but his life was tragically cut short when he was martyred during the Spanish Civil War on August 22, 1936, in Castuera, Badajoz.
Throughout his life, Blessed Andrés Vicente dedicated himself to serving the people of God as a parish priest in the Castuera community. He wholeheartedly embraced his vocation, demonstrating a deep love for God and a genuine dedication to his flock.
During the tumultuous times of the Spanish Civil War, which erupted in 1936, many Catholic priests and religious were targeted for their faith. Blessed Andrés Vicente, true to his beliefs, remained steadfast and committed to his priestly duties despite the increased dangers and threats faced by the Catholic Church during this period.
Tragically, on August 22, 1936, Blessed Andrés Vicente was martyred for his faith. He willingly sacrificed his life, standing firm in his beliefs and refusing to renounce his Catholic identity. His ultimate act of martyrdom is a powerful testament to his unwavering devotion to Christ and his Church.
Blessed Andrés Vicente was formally recognized for his martyrdom on November 23, 2020, by Pope Francis, who issued a decree of martyrdom in acknowledgment of his sacrifice. This recognition was followed by his beatification on October 16, 2021, in a solemn ceremony presided over by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro. The beatification celebration took place at the Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción in Córdoba, Spain, honoring the life and faith of this courageous priest.
Today, Blessed Andrés Vicente is venerated as a martyr and a model of faith. His feast day is celebrated on August 22nd, the day of his martyrdom, a date that serves as a reminder of the tremendous bravery and sacrifice he displayed. As a beacon of hope and inspiration, his life stands as a testament to the deep faith and extraordinary courage displayed by countless individuals during the turbulent times of the Spanish Civil War.