Blessed Luis Magaña Servín

Biography

Blessed Luis Magaña Servín, also known as Luis Magaña, was born on 24 August 1902 in Arandas, Jalisco, Mexico. He was a devout Catholic and lifelong layman in the Archdiocese of Guadalajara. Luis actively participated in various Catholic organizations, including the Catholic Association of Mexican Youth, the Archconfraternity of the Night Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and the Our Lady of Guadalupe Association of tradesmen in his parish.

Luis's early life was spent assisting his father in the family's leather tannery. Alongside his dedication to his faith, he also had a passion for the sport of baseball. On 6 January 1926, Luis married Elvira Camarena Méndez, and their union was blessed with a son named Gilberto.

The year 1928 brought great trials for Luis and his family. As the Mexican Revolution brought about tensions between the government and Christians who opposed its policies, the authorities accused Luis of being a Cristero, a Christian who fought against the government. Arandas, his hometown, was a hotbed of resistance, and on 9 February 1928, troops were ordered to arrest him. However, when the soldiers arrived at his house, Luis was not present, so they arrested his brother instead.

Upon learning of his brother's unjust arrest, Luis willingly turned himself in to secure his brother's release. Tragically, this act of selflessness led to Luis's immediate sentencing to death. On that same day, at 3 pm, Blessed Luis Magaña Servín was shot by a firing squad in Arandas, Jalisco, Mexico.

At the time of his execution, Elvira, his wife, was pregnant. After the death of her husband, she gave birth to their daughter, Maria Luisa, who would come to know her father only through the stories passed down by her family.

Recognizing the martyrdom of Blessed Luis Magaña Servín, Pope John Paul II declared him venerable on 22 June 2004. Later, on 20 November 2005, Pope Benedict XVI beatified him, officially acknowledging his heroic virtues and the sanctity of his life.

Blessed Luis Magaña Servín's feast day is celebrated on 9 February, the date of his martyrdom. He serves as an inspiration to all Catholics, particularly those facing persecution or struggling to uphold their faith in challenging times. His self-sacrifice and commitment to his beliefs stand as a testament to the power of faith and the courageous witness of the martyrs of the Mexican Revolution.