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Feast Day: October 1
Birth: January 20, 1909
Death: October 1, 1
Blessed Higinio De Mata Díez was born on 20 January 1909 in Ubierna, Burgos, Spain. He was the cousin of Blessed Juan de Mata Díez, and from a young age, Higinio displayed a deep piety. He attended Mass regularly and devoted himself to praying the Rosary each day.
At the age of 25, Higinio embarked on a journey of faith by joining the Salesians of Don Bosco in Carabanchal Alto, Spain. He entered as a postulant to the Order, embracing a life of dedicated service to God and his fellow human beings. However, during the turbulent period of the anti-Christian persecutions of the Spanish Civil War, Higinio was forced to go into hiding.
Despite his efforts to conceal himself from the brutalities of war, Higinio was eventually discovered. Tragically, he was captured, and on 1 October 1936, he was martyred, shot to death in Madrid, Spain, for his unwavering faith and commitment to Christ.
Blessed Higinio De Mata Díez is venerated as one of the Martyrs of the Spanish Civil War. His feast day is celebrated on 1 October, commemorating the day of his martyrdom. Additionally, he is also remembered on 6 November, along with other martyrs of the Spanish Civil War.
On 26 June 2006, Pope Benedict XVI acknowledged Higinio's martyrdom by decree, thus officially recognizing his heroic witness to the Christian faith. Later, on 28 October 2007, Pope Benedict XVI beatified Higinio De Mata Díez, bestowing upon him the title of "Blessed" and elevating him as an example of faithfulness even in the face of persecution.
Blessed Higinio De Mata Díez's life is a testament to the enduring strength of one's faith, even in the most challenging circumstances. His devotion and sacrifice serve as an inspiration to all who seek to live a life rooted in love, prayer, and unwavering commitment to God.