Blessed Francisco Calvo Burillo

Biography

Blessed Francisco Calvo Burillo was born on 21 November 1881 in Hijár, Teruel, Spain. He was a member of the Dominican Order and was professed in the Order on 5 April 1898. Francisco pursued his studies at the Dominican convents of Padron and Corias in Asturias, Spain. Later on, he continued his education at the university in Barcelona.

Following his studies, Francisco was ordained a priest in 1905 in Salamanca, Spain. For several years, he served as a teacher in Oviedo, Spain, sharing his knowledge and guiding students in their intellectual and spiritual development.

In 1912, Father Francisco was assigned to lead the restoration of the Dominican presence in the province of Aragon, Spain. He dedicated himself to this mission with great zeal and worked tirelessly to rebuild and strengthen the Dominican community in the region.

However, Father Francisco's dedication to his faith and priestly service would soon face significant challenges. In the midst of the Spanish Civil War, on 1 July 1936, he was imprisoned for the crime of being a priest. Despite the harsh conditions of his imprisonment, Father Francisco spent his last night praying and writing a final letter to his mother.

Tragically, on 2 August 1936, Father Francisco Calvo Burillo was martyred during the Spanish Civil War. In his final moments, he was praying for the forgiveness of his executioners, exemplifying his unwavering devotion to his faith and his commitment to forgiveness and reconciliation. He was shot in Híjar, Teruel, Spain.

Father Francisco was initially buried at the Calanda cemetery before being re-interred at the Dominican Zaragoza College of Santa Rosa. In 1962, his remains were again re-interred in the Cardinal Xavierre convent in Zaragoza.

His virtuous life and martyrdom were recognized by the Catholic Church. On 20 December 1999, Pope John Paul II declared him venerable through a decree of martyrdom. Later, on 11 March 2001, Pope John Paul II beatified Francisco Calvo Burillo, acknowledging his exemplary life of faith, dedication, and sacrifice.

Blessed Francisco Calvo Burillo's story serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us of the immense courage and deep commitment to Christ that characterized his life.