No image available
Feast Day: October 4
Birth: August 3, 1877
Death: October 4, 1936
Blessed Juan De Francisco Pío, also known as Leopoldo, was a devout Catholic monk and member of the Hospitallers of Saint John of God. He was born on 3 August 1877 in Caravaca, Murcia, Spain. Throughout his life, Juan De Francisco Pío dedicated himself to serving God and the sick, following in the footsteps of Saint John of God.
As a member of the Hospitallers of Saint John of God, Juan De Francisco Pío embraced a life of compassion, selflessness, and care for others. He tirelessly ministered to the sick and destitute, embodying the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Tragically, during the Spanish Civil War, Juan De Francisco Pío became a victim of religious persecution. On 4 October 1936, he was martyred in La Malvarrosa, Valencia, Spain, for his unwavering allegiance to his faith. Though faced with the threat of death, he remained steadfast in his devotion to God until the very end.
Recognizing the devout life and the ultimate sacrifice of Juan De Francisco Pío, Pope Francis declared him venerable on 5 July 2013, acknowledging his heroic virtues and the sanctity of his life. The Pope further declared his martyrdom on the same day, signifying that Juan De Francisco Pío had been killed in odium fidei, or in hatred of the faith.
In light of his martyrdom, Pope Francis proceeded to beatify Juan De Francisco Pío on 13 October 2013, recognizing him as a blessed of the Catholic Church. Beatification is an important step towards sainthood and serves as a testament to the exemplary life and steadfast faith of the individual.
Blessed Juan De Francisco Pío's feast day is celebrated on 4 October, the anniversary of his martyrdom. On this day, the Catholic faithful remember and honor his life, seeking his intercession and drawing inspiration from his unwavering commitment to God. His memory continues to be cherished within the Catholic Church, serving as a reminder of the courage and faithfulness of the martyrs who endured persecution for their religious beliefs.
Blessed Juan De Francisco Pío's life and martyrdom are a remarkable example of Christian faith and dedication to serving others. His legacy lives on, inspiring countless individuals to follow in his footsteps, imitating his selfless love and commitment to God.