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Feast Day: October 19
Birth: December 3, 1869
Death: October 19, 1936
Blessed Francisco Milagro Mesa, also known as Francisco Mesa Milagro, was a devout Catholic and a member of the Claretians. He was born on December 3, 1869, in Tarazona, Zaragoza, Spain. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to living out his faith and serving God.
Francisco Milagro joined the Claretian religious congregation, inspired by the teachings and spirituality of its founder, Saint Anthony Mary Claret. As a Claretian, he embraced a life of simplicity, prayer, and apostolic work, seeking to spread the Gospel message to all those he encountered.
During the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, which lasted from 1936 to 1939, Francisco Milagro courageously remained true to his calling despite the dangers and challenges he faced. His unwavering commitment to his religious beliefs led him to boldly proclaim his faith at a time when this act alone could cost him his life.
Sadly, on October 19, 1936, in the town of Mas Claret, Sant Pere dels Arquells, Lleida, Spain, Francisco Milagro became a martyr for his faith. He was among the numerous persecuted Catholics who suffered persecution and death during this period of religious turmoil. Although the details of his martyrdom remain obscure, it is believed that he was executed for refusing to renounce his Catholic beliefs and allegiance to the Church.
After his death, Francisco Milagro's reputation for holiness and martyrdom grew among his fellow Claretians and the wider community. His exemplary life of faith, his unwavering dedication to God and the Church, and his ultimate sacrifice inspired many.
Acknowledging his martyrdom, Pope Francis declared Francisco Milagro venerable on December 21, 2016. This official recognition affirmed his heroic virtues and the sanctity of his life. Continuing the process towards his eventual canonization, he was beatified on October 21, 2017, in a ceremony held at the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain.
The beatification ceremony was presided over by Archbishop Angelo Amato, the Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints at that time. This significant event celebrated Francisco Milagro's life and martyrdom, bringing attention to his courage and faithfulness in the face of adversity.
Today, Blessed Francisco Milagro Mesa stands as a shining example of steadfast devotion to God and unwavering commitment to the Catholic faith. His life and martyrdom continue to inspire and remind us of the sacrifices made by many during times of persecution and the importance of remaining faithful to one's beliefs, even in the face of adversity.