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Feast Day: October 23
Birth: February 15, 1915
Death: October 23, 1936
Blessed Dorinda Sotelo Rodríguez was a member of the Daughters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul. She is celebrated as a martyr who sacrificed her life during the Spanish Civil War. Her life and death serve as a testament to her unwavering faith and devotion to her religious calling.
Blessed Dorinda Sotelo Rodríguez was born on 15 February 1915 in the town of Lodoselo in Orense, Spain. From a young age, she displayed a deep sense of piety and a desire to serve God. Inspired by the teachings of Saint Vincent de Paul, she joined the Daughters of Charity and dedicated her life to the service of the poor and marginalized.
As a Daughter of Charity, Dorinda embodied the values of humility, compassion, and selflessness. She tirelessly worked to alleviate the suffering of those in need and actively participated in various charitable activities. Her devotion to her vocation and commitment to following the teachings of Christ made her a role model for her fellow sisters.
However, during the turbulent period of the Spanish Civil War, Blessed Dorinda's faith and dedication were put to the ultimate test. The conflict between the Republicans and the Nationalists brought about immense violence and persecution against religious individuals and institutions. Despite the risks, Dorinda refused to abandon her duties or renounce her faith.
Tragically, on 23 October 1936, Blessed Dorinda Sotelo Rodríguez met her untimely demise in Barcelona, Spain. She was martyred for her faith and unwavering commitment to her religious order. Her courageous stand in the face of persecution serves as an inspiration to all believers.
The heroic life and death of Dorinda Sotelo Rodríguez did not go unnoticed by the Catholic Church. On 1 December 2016, Pope Francis decreed her martyrdom, recognizing her supreme act of sacrifice. On 11 November 2017, she was beatified in a solemn ceremony held at the Palacio Vistalegre Arena in Carabanchel, Madrid, Spain. The beatification recognition was presided over by Cardinal Angelo Amato and Cardinal Carlos Osoro Sierra of Madrid, among other dignitaries.
Blessed Dorinda Sotelo Rodríguez's feast day is celebrated on 23 October each year, commemorating the day of her martyrdom. Her life serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the strength of conviction. As a blessed martyr, she continues to inspire the faithful to live out their beliefs fearlessly and selflessly, just as she did during her remarkable life.