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Feast Day: July 22
Birth: August 16, 1914
Death: July 22, 1982
Blessed Rosalío Benito Ixchop, also known as Rosalío Benito Ixchop, was a pious married layman and catechist from the diocese of Quiché in Guatemala. He was born on August 16, 1914, in La Puerta, Chinique, Guatemala. Rosalío dedicated his life to serving his parish community and spreading the teachings of the Catholic Church.
As a catechist, Rosalío played a crucial role in educating and guiding fellow parishioners in their faith. He was admired for his deep devotion to God and his commitment to helping others understand and live out their Catholic beliefs. Through his genuine love for God and his neighbor, Rosalío cultivated a reputation as a man of strong faith and moral integrity.
However, during a tumultuous period in Guatemalan history, Rosalío's commitment to his faith led him to become a target of persecution. In July 1982, government troops murdered Rosalío in his hometown of La Puerta, Chinique, Quiché. His martyrdom came as a result of his unwavering dedication to his faith and his refusal to renounce his Catholic beliefs.
Rosalío's courageous witness to his faith in the face of persecution and his ultimate sacrifice of his life for the cause of Christ were widely recognized and honored. The Catholic community and the faithful in the diocese of Quiché, Guatemala, venerated Rosalío's memory, recognizing him as a martyr for the faith.
On January 23, 2020, Pope Francis decreed the martyrdom of Rosalío Benito Ixchop, acknowledging his exemplary life and death as a witness to Christ's teachings. This significant recognition by the Pope paved the way for Rosalío's beatification.
On April 23, 2021, Pope Francis solemnly beatified Rosalío Benito Ixchop in a ceremony held in Santa Cruz del Quiché, Guatemala. This beatification event brought immense joy and jubilation to the faithful, particularly in the diocese of Quiché, where Rosalío's memory has been held in high esteem.
Blessed Rosalío Benito Ixchop's life and martyrdom continue to inspire countless individuals to stand firm in their faith, even in the face of adversity. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring strength and resilience of the Catholic Church and the unwavering faith of its followers, particularly those who have given their lives for the cause of Christ.