Blessed Fortunato Velasco Tobar

Biography

Blessed Fortunato Velasco Tobar, also known as Father Fortunato Velasco Tobar, was born on 31 May 1906 in Tardajos, Burgos, Spain. He grew up in a devout Catholic family and showed an early inclination towards the priesthood. Fortunato joined the Congregation of the Mission, also known as the Vincentians, on 18 September 1923, and he made his final vows as a Vincentian on 19 September 1925.

After completing his studies and being ordained as a priest, Father Fortunato was assigned to the Apostolic College of Teruel in 1935. Dedicated to his mission, he served the community diligently, providing pastoral care and guidance to the faithful.

Unfortunately, during this period, Spain was engulfed in the turmoil of the Spanish Civil War, a conflict that deeply affected the Catholic Church. Father Fortunato, along with many other priests and religious, became a victim of the violence and persecution targeting Catholics.

On 24 August 1936, Father Fortunato Velasco Tobar was martyred in Alcorisa, Teruel, Spain. He bravely gave his life in defense of his faith and commitment to serving God and the Church amidst the challenging circumstances of the time.

In recognition of his martyrdom and the lasting impact of his sacrifice, Father Fortunato was venerated as a martyr by Pope Francis on 5 July 2013. This official declaration by the Holy Father acknowledged his heroic witness to the Christian faith.

Then, on 13 October 2013, Pope Francis beatified Father Fortunato Velasco Tobar, bestowing upon him the title of "Blessed." This beatification ceremony affirmed the Church's recognition of his sanctity and granted him a place of honor among the blessed martyrs and saints.

Blessed Fortunato Velasco Tobar's feast days are celebrated on 24 August, the day of his martyrdom, and 6 November, in memory of his collective commemoration with the other Vincentian Martyrs. The Vincentian Martyrs were a group of Catholic priests and seminarians who suffered persecution and martyrdom during the Spanish Civil War due to their faith and affiliation with the Vincentian community.

The life of Blessed Fortunato Velasco Tobar serves as a shining example of unwavering faith and dedication to the service of God and others, even in the face of persecution and adversity. His martyrdom inspires countless believers to remain steadfast and courageous in their faith, standing up for what is right and just in the world.