Blessed Benito Quintano Díaz

Biography

Blessed Benito Quintano Díaz, also known as Benito Quintano, was a Catholic priest and member of the Vincentian Congregation of the Mission. He was born on 3 April 1861 in Lodoso, a town in Burgos, Spain.

From a young age, Benito showed a strong interest in religious matters and felt called to dedicate his life to the service of God. He entered the Vincentian Congregation and was ordained a priest. Throughout his ministry, he worked with great zeal to bring the message of the Gospel to those in need, particularly the poor and marginalized. Benito was known for his compassionate nature and unwavering commitment to social justice.

In the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, Blessed Benito Quintano Díaz remained faithful to his mission despite the dangers and uncertainties of the time. Unfortunately, his dedication to his faith and his acts of charity did not go unnoticed by those who opposed the Catholic Church. On 12 December 1936, in Madrid, Spain, Blessed Benito Quintano Díaz was martyred for his faith, becoming a witness to his unwavering commitment to Christ and the Church.

In recognition of his martyrdom and exemplary life, Pope Francis issued a decree of martyrdom on 23 March 2017, declaring Blessed Benito Quintano Díaz a martyr. Then, on 11 November 2017, Pope Francis presided over the beatification recognition of Blessed Benito Quintano Díaz at the Palacio Vistalegre Arena in Carabanchel, Madrid, Spain. The beatification ceremony was attended by Cardinal Angelo Amato and Cardinal Carlos Osoro Sierra of Madrid, who officially recognized and celebrated the holiness and sacrifice of Blessed Benito Quintano Díaz.

Blessed Benito Quintano Díaz's feast day is celebrated on 12 December each year, commemorating the day of his martyrdom. His beatification serves as an inspiration to all who seek to live their faith with courage and selflessness, even in the face of persecution and adversity.