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Feast Day: July 28
Birth: October 15, 1901
Death: July 28, 1936
Blessed José Aurelio Calleja De Hierro, an Augustinian priest, was born on October 15, 1901, in Melgar de Fernamental, Burgos, Spain. He grew up in a devout Catholic family, which instilled in him a strong faith from a young age.
José Aurelio Calleja De Hierro felt a calling to the priesthood and entered the Augustinian Order. He dedicated himself to a life of prayer, study, and serving others, striving to emulate the humility and compassion of St. Augustine.
During the turbulent period of the Spanish Civil War, which raged from 1936 to 1939, religious persecution was widespread. In this time of great danger, Fr. José Aurelio Calleja De Hierro fearlessly stood up for his faith and remained steadfast in his commitment to the Catholic Church.
Tragically, on July 28, 1936, Fr. José Aurelio Calleja De Hierro was martyred in Belinchón, Cuenca, Spain, for his refusal to renounce his beliefs. He bore witness to his faith until his last breath, exemplifying courage and unwavering devotion to God.
Blessed José Aurelio Calleja De Hierro's martyrdom did not go unnoticed, and his virtuous life and sacrificial death were officially recognized by the Catholic Church. On June 1, 2007, Pope Benedict XVI declared him venerable, acknowledging his heroic virtues. Later, on October 28, 2007, Pope Benedict XVI beatified him, a step towards his eventual canonization as a saint.
While specific details regarding any particular representation of Blessed José Aurelio Calleja De Hierro are not provided, it is important to note that representations of saints often vary and may involve symbols significant to their lives or martyrdom. Devotional images may depict him wearing the Augustinian habit or holding objects associated with the Order or his martyrdom.
Blessed José Aurelio Calleja De Hierro's feast day is celebrated on July 28, the date of his martyrdom. On this day, Catholics around the world remember his life, sacrifice, and the example he set as a faithful servant of God.
The beatification of Blessed José Aurelio Calleja De Hierro serves as a reminder of the countless individuals who, in the face of persecution, remained steadfast in their faith and continued to bear witness to Christ's love. His life stands as an inspiration to all who strive to live their faith courageously and selflessly, even in the most challenging circumstances.