Blessed Antonio Cid Rodríguez

Biography

Blessed Antonio Cid Rodríguez, also known as Blessed Antonio Cid, was born on 15 April 1890 in Calsadoira, Orense, Spain. Baptized at the age of one day, he grew up with a deep-rooted calling to religious life. Antonio eventually answered this call by joining the Salesians of Don Bosco in Seville, Spain.

On 8 December 1909, he made his profession as a coadjutor lay brother, dedicating his life to the service of God and others. Throughout his formation and subsequent years, Antonio exemplified the virtues of humility, charity, and devotion to his vocation as a lay religious brother.

Antonio spent his early years teaching in several Salesian colleges, imparting knowledge and wisdom to countless students. However, during the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War, his life and religious work were tragically disrupted.

Seeking refuge from the escalating violence, Antonio tried to hide with his family in Bilbao, Spain. Unfortunately, his attempts to escape persecution were foiled when anti-Christian militia discovered his whereabouts. They forcibly dragged him out of his hiding place, and without any semblance of a fair trial, they shot him on the spot. Antonio Cid Rodríguez died a martyr's death in the early morning of 26 September 1936 in Bilbao, Vizcaya, Spain.

The heroic sacrifice of Blessed Antonio Cid Rodríguez exemplifies his unwavering faith and commitment to Christ, even in the face of extreme persecution. His life serves as a testament to the profound love and dedication that many faithful individuals demonstrated during a time of intense religious turmoil in Spain.

Recognizing his virtuous life and martyrdom, Pope Benedict XVI proclaimed him venerable on 26 June 2006, issuing a decree of martyrdom. A year later, on 28 October 2007, Pope Benedict XVI beatified him, bestowing upon him the title of Blessed Antonio Cid Rodríguez.

As a religious icon, Blessed Antonio Cid Rodríguez represents the enduring strength of the lay religious brotherhood and the willingness to give one's life for the sake of the faith. His feast day is celebrated on 26 September, commemorating the day of his martyrdom. While no specific representation is mentioned, his life and witness continue to inspire believers around the world to live their faith with courage and devotion.