Blessed Fernando García De Dios

Biography

Blessed Fernando García De Dios, also known as Fernando García de Dios, was born on 30 May 1916 in the town of Sanfelices de Gallegos, in the Diocese of Ciudad Rodrigo, Salamanca, Spain. He was the son of Louis and Francisca, who worked as doormen for the Augustinian mothers of San Felices.

In his teenage years, Fernando pursued his studies with the Dominicans in Almagro, Spain, focusing mainly on literature. During this time, he displayed a potential vocation to the priesthood. However, in his late teens, he began to suffer from vision problems that significantly limited his education. Despite these challenges, Fernando did not waver in his desire to serve God and His Church.

Recognizing his limitations, Fernando joined the Dominican Order as a cooperator brother on 8 September 1935. He embraced this role wholeheartedly, dedicating himself to the service of his Dominican community and the people around him.

Tragically, while still a novice in the Dominican Order, Fernando and his fellow brothers faced persecution and abuse during the Spanish Civil War due to their Christian faith. On 13 August 1936, Fernando was imprisoned for his commitment to the Gospel. The following day, on 14 August 1936, he was mercilessly martyred alongside a group of his brother friars in El Picado, Almagro, Ciudad Real, Spain.

Blessed Fernando García De Dios is honored as one of the Martyred Dominicans of Almagro and one of the Spanish Martyrs of the 20th Century. His feast day is celebrated on 14 August. His relics are enshrined in the Saint Thomas Aquinas church in Seville, Spain, where he is venerated by the faithful.

The recognition of his martyrdom and sanctity came on 11 December 2019 when Pope Francis declared a decree of martyrdom for Blessed Fernando García De Dios. This milestone led to his beatification ceremony, which was held on 18 June 2022 in the Cathedral of Santa María de la Sede in Sevilla, Spain. The beatification was presided over by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro.

Blessed Fernando García De Dios stands as a model of faith, perseverance, and selfless service to the Church, even in the face of persecution. His life continues to inspire countless individuals on their own spiritual journey.