Blessed Francisco Bandrés Sánchez

Biography

Blessed Francisco Bandrés Sánchez, also known as Blessed Francisco of Hecho, was born on 24 April 1896 in Hecho, Huesca, Spain. He was a devoted Catholic priest, musician, and musical director.

Francisco pursued his studies in Huesca and Campello, Spain before joining the Salesians of Don Bosco in 1913. He began his novitiate at Carabanchel in Barcelona, Spain, and was ordained a priest in 1922. With a passion for music, he also served as a musician and musical director during his time as a Salesian.

Throughout his career, Blessed Francisco taught in various locations including Barcelona, Mataro, and Sarria. He was dedicated to providing a quality Catholic education to his students, instilling in them a strong foundation of faith and knowledge.

During the tumultuous era of the Spanish Civil War, the situation for Catholics became increasingly dangerous. Blessed Francisco, fully aware of the risks and using the resources available at the school where he taught, made valiant efforts to save as many students and fellow Salesians as possible. Despite the imminent danger, he selflessly worked to ensure their safety.

Unfortunately, his commitment to his faith and his role as a priest ultimately cost him his life. On 3 August 1936, he was apprehended and imprisoned by members of the Unified Marxist Workers Party in Barcelona, Spain. It was in the prison cell at the headquarters of the party where he suffered unimaginable torture, ultimately succumbing to his injuries and dying as a martyr for his faith.

Blessed Francisco Bandrés Sánchez is remembered as one of the Martyred Salesians of Valencia, Catalunya, and Aragón. His feast days are celebrated on 3 August and 22 September. He was officially venerated on 20 December 1999 by Pope John Paul II through a decree of martyrdom. Furthermore, on 11 March 2001, Pope John Paul II beatified him, recognizing his virtuous life and sacrifice for the Catholic faith.

Blessed Francisco Bandrés Sánchez stands as a beacon of courage, devotion, and selflessness, exemplifying the values and virtues of the Catholic faith. His life and martyrdom serve as an inspiration to all those who seek to live out their faith with unwavering dedication, even in the face of tremendous adversity.