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Feast Day: July 23
Death: July 23, 1936
Blessed Francisco De Paula Ortega Montilla was born in 1868 in the town of Montilla, in the province of Córdoba, Spain. He grew up in a devout Catholic family and from a young age, demonstrated a strong faith and deep love for God. Francisco Ortega Montilla married and settled in the diocese of Córdoba, where he lived an exemplary married life, dedicated to serving both his family and the Church.
Throughout his life, Francisco was known for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to his Christian beliefs. He actively participated in various parish activities, serving as an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion and being involved in the Cursillo Movement, a Catholic apostolate focused on renewing Christian faith and promoting spiritual growth.
During the turbulent years of the Spanish Civil War, when religious persecution was rampant in Spain, Francisco Ortega Montilla fearlessly and selflessly defended the Catholic faith. Despite the dangerous circumstances and the threats posed by anti-Catholic forces, Francisco remained steadfast in his devotion to God, refusing to renounce his beliefs.
On July 23, 1936, Francisco Ortega Montilla was martyred in the town of Puente Genil, Córdoba, for his refusal to abandon his Catholic faith. He gave his life as a witness to Christ's love and unwavering commitment to the truth. His martyrdom serves as a testament to his extraordinary faith, courage, and fidelity to the teachings of the Catholic Church.
In recognition of his martyrdom, Pope Francis declared Francisco De Paula Ortega Montilla venerable on November 23, 2020, signifying that he lived a life of heroic virtue. On October 16, 2021, Pope Francis proceeded to beatify him, marking a significant step towards his eventual canonization as a saint.
The beatification ceremony took place at the Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción in Córdoba, Spain, and was presided over by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro. The beatification recognition celebration honored Francisco Ortega Montilla's sacrifice and exemplified the Church's recognition of his sanctity.
Blessed Francisco De Paula Ortega Montilla is remembered as a devoted husband, a faithful layman, and a martyr who courageously stood firm in his faith, even in the face of persecution and death. His life serves as an inspiration to all believers, encouraging them to persist in their devotion to God and to live out their faith with unwavering commitment. As a blessed of the Catholic Church, he continues to intercede for the faithful and serve as a role model for all.