Blessed Leoncio Pérez Nebreda

Biography

Blessed Leoncio Pérez Nebreda was born on 18 March 1895 in Villarmentero, Burgos, Spain. He was baptized and raised in a devout Catholic family, which instilled in him a strong faith from a young age.

In response to his calling, Leoncio joined the Vincentians on 19 August 1911, at the age of sixteen. He took his religious vows on 1 January 1914, dedicating his life to the service of God and others. Recognizing his potential and commitment, he was ordained as a priest on 10 August 1921.

Father Leoncio's journey as a priest led him to serve as a professor at the Vincentian Apostolic College in Teruel, Spain. His skills as an educator and mentor were highly regarded, and he had a profound impact on the formation and spiritual growth of many young seminarians. In 1935, he was assigned to the Apostolic College in Alcorisa, where he continued to inspire and guide his students in their priestly vocations.

Throughout his various assignments, Father Leoncio always held firmly to his belief that his primary vocation was to lead people to Christ. He tirelessly preached the Gospel, consoled the afflicted, and provided guidance to those in need. His compassionate and selfless nature endeared him to both his fellow clergy and the laypeople he served.

Sadly, Father Leoncio's life was cut short during the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War. On 2 August 1936, he was brutally beaten to death with a hand tool in Las Planas de Oliete, Teruel, Spain. His body was callously thrown off a cliff.

Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding his death, Father Leoncio's unwavering faith and dedication to his religious calling continued to inspire others. Recognizing his martyrdom, Pope Francis declared him venerable on 5 July 2013. Subsequently, on 13 October 2013, Pope Francis beatified him, acknowledging his exemplary life and the sacrifice he made for the sake of his faith and love for God.

Today, Blessed Leoncio Pérez Nebreda is commemorated on two feast days: 2 August, the day of his martyrdom, and 6 November, alongside the other Vincentian Martyrs. His courageous witness in the face of persecution serves as a reminder to all Catholics of the immense value of faith, even in the most challenging times.