Blessed Luis Echevarría Gorostiaga

Biography

Blessed Luis Echevarría Gorostiaga was born on 26 August 1895 in Ceánuri, Vizcaya, Spain. On the same day he was baptized in the Catholic Church, which would become a significant influence in his life. As a young man, Luis Echevarría Gorostiaga felt called to religious life and pursued his studies at the Seraphic College of Chipiona in Cadiz, Spain.

Having joined the Franciscan Friars Minor, Luis made his solemn vows on 17 September 1916, committing himself fully to a life of piety and service to God. Following this, he was ordained in the diocese of Cadiz on 29 May 1920, officially becoming a priest in the Catholic Church.

Luis Echevarría Gorostiaga's passion for education led him to take up teaching positions at various locations. He served as a teacher at Puente Genil, Cordoba, Spain, and in 1922 and 1923, he became the director of the school. During this time, his dedication to nurturing young minds and instilling Christian values was widely recognized.

From 1923 to 1927, Luis fulfilled his role as cantor and choirmaster at the convent of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. His musical talents and religious devotion blended harmoniously as he contributed to the liturgical ceremonies at this significant Christian site. Subsequently, he moved to the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth, where he continued to serve as a cantor and choirmaster from 1927 to 1929.

In October 1929, Luis Echevarría Gorostiaga returned to Spain to pursue his passion for teaching once again. He dedicated himself to the education and guidance of young people as a youth minister. Throughout this period, he inspired countless individuals with his gentle demeanor, steadfast faith, and commitment to virtuous living.

However, the Spanish Civil War, a devastating conflict that caused immense suffering, reached its peak during the late 1930s. Sadly, Blessed Luis Echevarría Gorostiaga became a victim of this tumultuous period. At dawn on 22 September 1936, he was martyred in Azuaga, Badajoz, Spain, for his unwavering faith and refusal to renounce his commitment to Catholicism. His courageous sacrifice in the face of persecution and violence stands as a testament to his deep devotion to God.

Blessed Luis Echevarría Gorostiaga's memory and holiness were officially recognized by the Catholic Church on 28 April 2006, when Pope Benedict XVI declared him venerable. Further acknowledging his martyrdom, Pope Benedict XVI beatified Luis Echevarría Gorostiaga on 28 October 2007, granting him the title of "Blessed."

As a beloved Catholic saint, Luis Echevarría Gorostiaga is remembered and celebrated on his feast days, which are observed on 22 September and 6 November as one of the Martyred Friars Minor of Granada. His example of faith, sacrifice, and dedication to educating and nurturing young minds continues to inspire believers around the world.