Blessed Enrique María Gómez Jiménez

Biography

Blessed Enrique María Gómez Jiménez, also known as Father Enrique María, was born on July 15, 1865, in Cuenca, Spain. He was baptized just two days after his birth and grew up in a devout Catholic family. From a young age, he felt the calling to the priesthood and dedicated himself to his studies.

Enrique María attended the seminary of Saint Julian and completed his theological education with great fervor. His dedication and spiritual depth earned him the admiration of his peers and mentors. On May 26, 1888, at the age of 22, he was ordained a priest in the diocese of Almería, Spain.

Soon after his ordination, Father Enrique María served as the chaplain of the convent of San Clemente in 1890. His compassionate nature and pastoral skills were cherished by the nuns under his care. He wholeheartedly embraced his role and found joy in ministering to these religious women.

Later, Father Enrique María was appointed as the parish priest in Villar de Cantos, Spain, where he continued to serve the faithful with diligence and love. His kindness and dedication to his flock endeared him to the people, and many sought his guidance and counsel.

Recognizing his administrative abilities, Father Enrique María was entrusted with the responsibility of serving as the bursar of the collegiate church of Belmonte. In this role, he displayed astute financial management skills, ensuring the smooth functioning of the church's affairs.

In addition to his administrative duties, Father Enrique María also served as a cantor at the cathedral of Almería. Through his beautiful voice and heartfelt devotion, he enriched the liturgical celebrations, inspiring those in attendance to deepen their faith.

However, Blessed Enrique María had an unquenchable desire for missionary work. In 1910, he answered the call to serve as a missionary in Argentina. He dedicated seven years of his life to spreading the Gospel and ministering to the people of Argentina. His compassionate and humble nature made him deeply beloved within the local communities.

In 1933, due to his declining health, Father Enrique María returned to Spain and settled in the area of Cuenca. As he fought against the ravages of illness, his faith remained steadfast, and he continued to radiate God's love to those around him.

Tragically, during the Spanish Civil War, when anti-Catholic militia targeted religious figures, they sought to capture Father Enrique María. Determined not to allow them to falsely stage his death as a suicide, the 71-year-old priest fought valiantly. Witnessing his strong resistance, the militant captors abandoned their original plan and ultimately took his life, martyring him for his faith.

On August 12, 1936, Father Enrique María Gómez Jiménez was shot to death in the bullfighting ring in Cuenca, Spain. His unyielding faith and resolute refusal to deny his Catholic identity were a profound testament to his commitment to Christ.

In recognition of his martyrdom, Pope Francis declared Enrique María Gómez Jiménez "Blessed" on March 25, 2017. The beatification ceremony took place in the Palacio de Exposiciones y Congresos de Aguadulce, Almería, Spain, and was presided over by Cardinal Angelo Amato. This solemn event brought joy and inspiration to countless faithful who continue to venerate Blessed Enrique María as a shining example of unwavering faith and sacrificial love for God and others.