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Feast Day: October 4
Birth: March 22, 1880
Death: October 4, 1936
Blessed Francisco Álvarez Baena, born on 22 March 1880 in Fernán-N√∫ñez, Córdoba, Spain, was a priest of the diocese of Córdoba. He dedicated his life to serving the faithful and was particularly involved in a diocesan apostolate to workers.
During the Spanish Civil War, a period of great religious persecution in Spain, Blessed Francisco Álvarez Baena remained steadfast in his faith and commitment to his flock. Unfortunately, his unwavering devotion to the Catholic Church and his pastoral duties ultimately led to his martyrdom. On 4 October 1936, in the town of Cañete de las Torres, Córdoba, Spain, he was executed for his faith.
Blessed Francisco Álvarez Baena's life and martyrdom serve as a powerful example of courage and fidelity to one's beliefs. His selfless dedication to the spiritual needs of the workers in his diocese reflects his deep commitment to social justice and the well-being of the most vulnerable in society.
In recognition of his heroic virtues and sacrificial offering, Pope Francis declared him venerable on 23 November 2020. Later, on 16 October 2021, Pope Francis presided over the beatification recognition ceremony held at the Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción in Córdoba, Spain. The beatification ceremony was led by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, marking a significant moment of recognition for Blessed Francisco Álvarez Baena's exceptional holiness and martyrdom.
The feast day of Blessed Francisco Álvarez Baena is celebrated on 4 October. On this day, Catholics around the world honor his memory, seeking his intercession and drawing inspiration from his remarkable life of faith and service.
Blessed Francisco Álvarez Baena's beatification highlights his enduring legacy as a model of Christian virtue, reminding believers of the importance of standing firm in one's convictions, even in the face of persecution. His life inspires us to prioritize our faith and to strive for justice and compassion in the world.