Blessed Antonio Martín Hernández

Biography

Blessed Antonio Martín Hernández, born on 18 July 1885, in Calzada de Béjar, Salamanca, Spain, was a devoted Catholic priest and a member of the Salesian order. As a young man raised in a pious family, Antonio felt a strong calling towards the Salesian charism of teaching.

After completing his training and earning his certification as a teacher in Salamanca, Spain, Antonio joined the Salesians, a religious congregation founded by Saint John Bosco. In 1919, he was ordained a priest, embarking on a journey of service and dedication to God and the Salesian mission.

Throughout his life, Blessed Antonio dedicated himself to both teaching and the formation of young men aspiring to become priests. He served as a teacher in Campello, Spain, and Carabanchel in Madrid, Spain, where he imparted knowledge and nurtured the spiritual growth of his students.

His passion for education and the Salesian mission led him to become the novice master at the seminary in Sarria, located just outside Barcelona, Spain. In this role, he guided and mentored young men in their formation as Salesian priests, passing on his wisdom and devotion to the next generation.

Later, Antonio assumed the role of Director of the Salesian college in Valencia, Spain, where his endless energy for the work and the mission earned him great respect and admiration from his colleagues and students alike. He dedicated himself wholeheartedly to the education and spiritual formation of the young people entrusted to his care.

Tragically, during the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, Antonio Martín Hernández met his martyrdom on 9 December 1936 in Picadero de Paterna, Valencia, Spain. His unwavering commitment to his faith and his willingness to defend it led to his persecution and eventual death.

The Church recognized the heroic virtues and martyrdom of Blessed Antonio Martín Hernández, highlighting his selfless sacrifice and unwavering faith. On 20 December 1999, Pope John Paul II declared him venerable, and on 11 March 2001, he was beatified by the same pontiff.

Today, Blessed Antonio continues to inspire countless individuals through his steadfast devotion to the Salesian mission of education and service. His feast day is celebrated on 10 December, and he is also remembered on 22 September as one of the Martyred Salesians of Valencia, Catalunya, and Aragón.