Blessed Mariano De Jesus Eues Hoyos

Biography

Blessed Mariano De Jesus Eues Hoyos, also known as Padre Marianito, was born on 14th October 1845 at Yarumal, in the diocese of Antioquía, Colombia. He was the eldest son of a devout rural Colombian family that lived during a time when the state was hostile towards the Catholic Church.

From a young age, Mariano felt a calling to the priesthood, and by the time he turned 16, he had set his heart on pursuing this vocation. At the age of 24, he entered the newly established Medellin Seminary, where he received his formation in preparation for the priesthood.

Mariano's dedication and commitment to his faith were evident throughout his years of study, and in 1872, he was ordained as a priest. After his ordination, he was assigned to work in the parishes of San Pedro and Yarumel, where he dedicated himself to ministering to the spiritual and social needs of the local communities.

In 1878, Mariano was appointed as the parish priest in Angostura, Colombia, a position that he would hold for the rest of his life. His love for the poor, especially rural laborers, became the guiding principle of his ministry. He had a deep understanding of their struggles and sought to alleviate their suffering through his care and support.

Padre Marianito's preaching style was simple yet effective, resonating deeply with his parishioners. His words touched the hearts of those who heard him, and many considered him a living saint. However, his dedication to his flock was not without its challenges. The region where his parish was located was plagued by civil war, and the Church faced hostility from both sides of the conflict.

Mariano's commitment to his faith and his people remained steadfast amidst the violence and turmoil. Several times, he had to seek refuge in nearby caves to escape the fighting. Despite the dangers he faced, he continued to minister to the spiritual needs of his community, providing solace and comfort to those affected by the war.

Padre Marianito's reputation for holiness and his exemplary life caught the attention of many, and he became a revered figure within the local Colombian Church. His unwavering faith and selfless service to others earned him the unofficial title of a saint among the people who knew him.

After his death on 13th July 1926 in Angostura, Antioquia, Colombia, Blessed Mariano De Jesus Eues Hoyos continued to be remembered and venerated by the faithful. On 3rd March 1990, Pope John Paul II declared the heroic virtues of Padre Marianito, recognizing his exceptional piety and dedication to his ministry.

Furthermore, on 9th April 2000, Pope John Paul II beatified Mariano De Jesus Eues Hoyos, making him the first Colombian to be granted this honor. This beatification was based on the confirmation of a miracle attributed to Padre Marianito's intercession in the life of Father Rafael Gildardo Velez Saldarriaga of Medellin.

Father Velez had undergone a series of medical treatments for prostate cancer, followed by a seemingly terminal prognosis in 1987. However, his condition inexplicably started to improve, and after thorough examinations, the Medical Commission of the Vatican Congregation for the Causes of Saints recognized the miraculous nature of this recovery.

Today, Blessed Mariano De Jesus Eues Hoyos is remembered as a humble and dedicated servant of God, whose life exemplified love, compassion, and zeal for the salvation of souls. His beatification serves as a testament to his sanctity and the profound impact he had on the lives of those he served.