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Blessed Antonio Suárez Riu

Blessed

Martyr

Feast Day: August 28

Birth: February 5, 1902

Death: August 28, 1936

Biography

Blessed Antonio Suárez Riu, also known as Honorato, was a Catholic priest and member of the Benedictine Solesmes Congregation. He was born on 5 February 1902 in Torres del Obispo, Huesca, Spain.

As a member of the Benedictine Solesmes Congregation, Blessed Antonio dedicated his life to serving God and the Church. He embraced the monastic life and committed himself to prayer, study, and the pursuit of holiness. In his role as a priest, he served the faithful with devotion, offering the sacraments and guiding others in their spiritual journey.

Blessed Antonio's life took a tragic turn during the Spanish Civil War, a period marked by intense social and political unrest in Spain. With the outbreak of the war, the Catholic Church became a target, and many members of the clergy were persecuted for their faith.

On 28 August 1936, in Barbastro, Huesca, Spain, Blessed Antonio Suárez Riu was martyred for his unwavering commitment to his faith. He courageously stood firm in his beliefs and was ultimately executed for refusing to renounce his dedication to Christ.

In recognition of his martyrdom and his strong witness to the Christian faith, Blessed Antonio was venerated by Pope Francis on 3 June 2013. The Holy Father issued a decree of martyrdom, acknowledging his heroic sacrifice. Later, on 13 October 2013, Pope Francis beatified Blessed Antonio Suárez Riu in a ceremony held at the Complex Educatiu in Tarragona, Spain. Cardinal Angelo Amato served as the chief celebrant, recognizing the blessed's exemplary life and the sanctity of his martyrdom.

Blessed Antonio Suárez Riu's feast day is celebrated on 28 August, the day of his martyrdom. Catholics honor him as a martyr and intercessor, seeking his heavenly aid in times of persecution and for the strength to remain faithful to the teachings of Christ.

The life of Blessed Antonio serves as an inspiration for all believers, reminding us of the profound sacrifice and commitment often required to live out our faith. His example encourages us to persevere in the face of adversity, remaining steadfast in our love for God and the Church.