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Feast Day: August 31
Birth: February 21, 1867
Death: August 31, 1936
Blessed Félix Paco Escartín, also known as "Blessed Paco," was a Salesian priest who met a martyr's death during the turbulent period of the Spanish Civil War. He was born on February 21, 1867, in the town of Aldeahuesca, Huesca, Spain.
Blessed Paco devoted his life to the service of God and the education of young people. He joined the Salesian Society, a religious congregation founded by Saint John Bosco, and was ordained a priest. Throughout his ministry, he worked tirelessly to help evangelize and educate the youth, instilling in them the values of faith, knowledge, and virtue.
During the Spanish Civil War, which took place from 1936 to 1939, the Catholic Church and its clergy faced intense persecution. As a result of his unwavering commitment to his faith and his refusal to renounce his religious beliefs, Blessed Paco was captured by Republican forces on August 24, 1936, in Malaga, Spain.
Despite the hardships and threats encountered during his captivity, Blessed Paco remained steadfast in his faith and continued to offer spiritual support to his fellow prisoners, providing them solace and encouragement. On August 31, 1936, he was brutally martyred, dying as a result of his fidelity to Christ.
Blessed Félix Paco Escartín's martyrdom captured the attention of the faithful, and his reputation for holiness and devotion quickly spread. As a result, on June 26, 2006, Pope Benedict XVI issued a decree of martyrdom, officially recognizing his heroic death for the faith.
Furthermore, on October 28, 2007, Pope Benedict XVI beatified Blessed Paco, bestowing upon him the title of "Blessed," which is a step towards official sainthood. His feast day is celebrated on August 31, commemorating the day of his martyrdom.
Blessed Félix Paco Escartín serves as an inspiring example of faith and courage, standing firm in the face of persecution and remaining dedicated to his mission until the end. His life and witness remind us of the importance of standing up for our beliefs and staying faithful to God's call, even in the face of adversity.