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Feast Day: August 16
Death: August 16, 1936
Blessed Gregorio Zugasti Fernández De Esquide, also known as Brother Gregorio Zugasti, was a Redemptorist brother who dedicated his life to the service of God. He was born in Murillo de Yerri, Navarra, Spain in 1884. From an early age, Gregorio felt called to religious life and entered the Redemptorist community.
On 25th December 1912, Gregorio made his religious profession, vowing to live a life of poverty, chastity, and obedience according to the Redemptorist charism. He embraced the values of the Congregation, seeking to spread the message of God's redeeming love to those in need.
During the turbulent times of the Spanish Civil War, Brother Gregorio remained steadfast in his faith and commitment to his religious vows. Unfortunately, his unwavering dedication had dire consequences. On 16th August 1936, at the Castellón highway in Madrid, Brother Gregorio was martyred for his faith, becoming a witness to Christ's sacrificial love.
Brother Gregorio Zugasti Fernández De Esquide's life and martyrdom exemplify his deep conviction and unwavering commitment to the Catholic faith. His sacrificial offering in the face of persecution stood as a testament to his unwavering devotion and his refusal to renounce his beliefs even in the face of grave danger.
Recognizing the sanctity and heroism of Brother Gregorio's life, Pope Francis declared him venerable on 24th April 2021, with a decree of martyrdom. This designation acknowledges his martyrdom for the sake of the Gospel, and the Church now venerates him as a Blessed, worthy of special honor and intercession.
Although specific details regarding Blessed Gregorio's representation are not available, the faithful can invoke his intercession on his feast day, which falls on 16th August. On this day, Catholics can remember his life, sacrifice, and follow his example of dedicated service to God and the Church.
Although the specific details about his beatification are not provided, it is important to note that being declared a Blessed signifies the Church's official recognition of his sanctity and invites the faithful to approach him as an intercessor and seek his assistance during their spiritual journey.
Blessed Gregorio Zugasti Fernández De Esquide inspires us to remain faithful to our Catholic beliefs, even in the face of adversity, and reminds us of the profound sacrifices made by individuals who align their lives with the greater mission of proclaiming God's love and mercy to all.