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Feast Day: February 15
Birth: September 14, 1889
Death: February 15, 1937
Blessed Camila Díez Blanco, also known as Camila Díez, was born on September 14, 1889, in Nidáguila, Burgos, Spain. She was baptized on the day she was born and later confirmed in 1892. Camila grew up in a devout Catholic family and from a young age demonstrated a deep love for God and a strong desire to serve Him.
In March 1930, Camila decided to leave her hometown and move to Barcelona to live with her recently widowed brother, Blessed Gregorio Díez Blanco. Gregorio had been left to care for his four young children after the passing of his wife. Camila took it upon herself to assist her brother in raising and nurturing the children, dedicating herself to their well-being and religious education.
During these troubling times in Spain, as the Spanish Civil War unfolded, Camila and Gregorio became known for their unwavering faith and their commitment to sheltering and protecting religious individuals who were being targeted by anti-Catholic forces. Many priests and religious sought refuge in their home, finding safety and solace amidst the chaos and violence of that era.
One of Camila's closest friends and companions in this mission was Blessed Eliseo Moradillo García, who shared her fervor for defending the faith and providing refuge for those in need. Together, they demonstrated exceptional courage and selflessness, risking their own lives to protect and support others.
However, on February 15, 1937, tragedy struck when a group of militiamen raided Camila's home in Barcelona. Camila, along with Blessed Eliseo and Gregorio, were unjustly detained and later executed for their faith. They accepted their martyrdom with great strength and unwavering faith, remaining steadfast in their commitment to Christ until the very end.
Blessed Camila Díez Blanco's life and sacrifice have been recognized and acknowledged by the Catholic Church. On December 18, 2017, Pope Francis declared her venerable, acknowledging her heroic virtue and the sanctity of her life. Furthermore, on November 10, 2018, Pope Francis beatified Camila Díez Blanco in a solemn ceremony held in the Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. The beatification was presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, who recognized her as a martyr for the faith.
Blessed Camila Díez Blanco serves as a shining example of selflessness, courage, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity. Her life and martyrdom inspire others to remain steadfast in their commitment to Christ and to stand up for the truth, even when confronted with persecution. She continues to intercede for us and strengthen our faith from her place in the presence of God.