No image available
Feast Day: July 25
Birth: September 28, 1903
Death: July 25, 1936
Blessed Lorenzo Atanasio Rodríguez Cortés, a priest of the diocese of Córdoba, Spain, was born on 28 September 1903 in Cabeza del Buey, Badajoz, Spain. He dedicated his life to the service of God and the people as a member of the Casturea community.
Lorenzo Atanasio Rodríguez Cortés was ordained a priest and faithfully carried out his pastoral duties, ministering to the spiritual needs of the faithful in his diocese. His love for God and his community was evident in his committed and selfless service.
However, during the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, Blessed Lorenzo Atanasio Rodríguez Cortés faced persecution for his faith. He suffered the fate of many Catholics during that time and was martyred for his unwavering dedication to the Catholic Church. On 25 July 1936, in Castuera, Badajoz, Spain, he embraced death rather than renounce his beliefs.
Blessed Lorenzo Atanasio Rodríguez Cortés' courageous witness and sacrifice for his faith did not go unnoticed. In recognition of his martyrdom, Pope Francis declared him venerable on 23 November 2020, acknowledging his heroic virtues and the exemplary nature of his life and death. This decree paved the way for his beatification.
The beatification ceremony of Blessed Lorenzo Atanasio Rodríguez Cortés took place on 16 October 2021 in the Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, Córdoba, Spain. The celebration was presided over by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, representing the Pope. This special event brought together the faithful from near and far to honor and venerate this blessed martyr.
Blessed Lorenzo Atanasio Rodríguez Cortés was beatified as a testament to his faith, unwavering commitment to the Church, and his ultimate sacrifice. His beatification serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the profound courage and devotion exhibited by those who endured persecution for their faith during a challenging chapter in Spanish history. May his blessed memory continue to inspire and strengthen the faithful in their own journey of faith.