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Feast Day: October 3
Birth: October 18, 1903
Death: October 3, 1936
Blessed Eleuterio Castillo Gómez, born on 18 October 1903 in Marmellar de Arriba, Burgos, Spain, was a Catholic priest and dedicated member of the Vincentian Congregation of the Mission. He lived during a tumultuous period in Spanish history, marked by the Spanish Civil War and its severe persecution of Catholics. Blessed Eleuterio dedicated his life to serving God and spreading the Gospel, ultimately sacrificing his life as a martyr during this period of religious conflict.
As a member of the Vincentian Congregation of the Mission, Blessed Eleuterio passionately embraced the mission of helping the poor and marginalized. He epitomized the Vincentian spirit by actively engaging with those in need, demonstrating compassion and solidarity towards the less fortunate. He tirelessly worked to alleviate suffering and provide support to those who needed it the most.
In his pastoral ministry, Blessed Eleuterio served in various parishes, bringing spiritual guidance and comfort to his flock. His dedication to proclaiming the Word of God motivated many to deepen their faith and actively participate in the life of the Church. His commitment to the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and the Sacrament of Reconciliation, contributed to the spiritual growth and nourishment of his community.
Tragically, during the Spanish Civil War, a time marked by brutal persecution of Catholics and religious figures, Blessed Eleuterio became a target for his unwavering commitment to his faith. He fearlessly continued his ministerial duties despite the dangers surrounding him. On 3 October 1936, in Madrid, Spain, he was martyred for his refusal to renounce his allegiance to Christ and the Catholic Church.
Blessed Eleuterio Castillo Gómez was posthumously recognized for his martyrdom and valor by Pope Francis on 23 March 2017. His beatification followed on 11 November 2017, in a solemn ceremony held at the Palacio Vistalegre Arena in Carabanchel, Madrid, Spain. Cardinal Angelo Amato and Cardinal Carlos Osoro Sierra of Madrid presided over the beatification recognition, honoring the life and sacrifice of this faithful servant of God.
Blessed Eleuterio Castillo Gómez remains an inspirational figure, exemplifying unwavering faith, courage, and dedication to the service of God and others. His life stands as a testament to the enduring resilience of Catholicism in the face of persecutions, and he continues to be venerated and celebrated on his feast day, which falls on 3 October. May his sacrificial testimony inspire us to stand firm in our faith and be compassionate towards those in need, just as he did in his life.