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Feast Day: October 7
Birth: October 8, 1910
Death: October 7, 1934
Blessed Mariano Suárez Fernández, also known as Blessed Mariano of Oviedo, was a seminarian of the archdiocese of Oviedo, Spain, who became a martyr during the Spanish Civil War. He was born on 8 October 1910 in San Andrés de Linares, a small village in Asturias, Spain.
As a young man, Mariano felt a calling to the priesthood and entered the seminary to pursue his vocation. He was known for his deep faith, devotion to the Virgin Mary, and love for the Eucharist. Mariano was admired for his kind and gentle nature, as well as his commitment to serving others.
Tragically, the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War in 1936 brought immense suffering and persecution to the Catholic Church in Spain. Despite the dangers, Mariano courageously continued his studies and remained faithful to his calling. He saw his vocation as a way to bring hope and peace to his war-torn country.
On 7 October 1934, at the age of 24, Mariano was brutally martyred in Oviedo, the capital city of Asturias. Details regarding the exact circumstances of his death are scarce, but it is believed that he was executed for his unwavering Catholic faith and refused to renounce his religious convictions.
Years later, on 7 November 2018, Pope Francis officially recognized the martyrdom of Mariano Suárez Fernández and declared him "Blessed." This recognition came in the form of a decree, signifying his heroic virtue and witness to the faith. The beatification ceremony took place on 9 March 2019 at the Cathedral of San Salvador in Oviedo, Spain. The ceremony was presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu and attended by thousands of faithful Catholics.
Blessed Mariano Suárez Fernández's life serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment and sacrifice of many Catholics during the tumultuous years of the Spanish Civil War. His example continues to inspire believers worldwide, reminding them of the enduring power of faith and the courage to stand firm in the face of persecution. May his life and martyrdom be a source of encouragement and intercession for all those who face hostility and challenges to their faith.