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Feast Day: August 27
Death: August 27, 1936
Blessed María Luisa Bonilla Benavides, also known as María Bonilla, was a lay woman in the diocese of Córdoba, Spain, who was martyred during the Spanish Civil War. She was born in 1902 and hailed from the town of Posadas in Córdoba.
María Luisa Bonilla Benavides lived during a turbulent period in Spanish history, marked by political unrest and religious persecution. As a devout Catholic, she faced increasing challenges to her faith as anti-Catholic sentiment grew in the country.
During the Spanish Civil War, which began in 1936, María Luisa Bonilla Benavides bravely witnessed and endured persecution due to her strong commitment to Catholicism. She fearlessly defended her faith and refused to abandon her religious beliefs and principles, even in the face of immense pressure and danger.
Tragically, María Luisa Bonilla Benavides was martyred for her unwavering faith on August 27, 1936, in Posadas, Córdoba. Her courageous stand in defense of her Catholic beliefs, despite the violent opposition, demonstrated her deep love and commitment to God.
Recognizing her heroic virtues and the ultimate sacrifice she made, María Luisa Bonilla Benavides was venerated by Pope Francis on November 23, 2020. This act of veneration acknowledged her martyrdom as a testament to her extraordinary commitment to her faith.
Furthermore, on October 16, 2021, Pope Francis officially beatified María Luisa Bonilla Benavides in a ceremony held at the Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción in Córdoba, Spain. The beatification recognition was presided over by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, who emphasized the sanctity and exemplary life of María Luisa as an inspiration for the faithful.
Blessed María Luisa Bonilla Benavides serves as a powerful example of unwavering faith and steadfast dedication to Catholicism, especially during challenging and perilous times. Her life and martyrdom continue to inspire believers around the world, encouraging them to stand firm in their convictions and live out their faith with courage and love.