Blessed Santiago Calero Redondo

Biography

Blessed Santiago Calero Redondo, also known as Blessed Santiago of Villa del Río, was a dedicated priest of the diocese of Córdoba, Spain, known for his faith and selfless service to the Villa del Río community. He was born on 27 July 1869 in the town of Pedroche, located in the province of Córdoba.

From an early age, Santiago felt a calling to the priesthood and entered the seminary to pursue his vocation. He was ordained as a priest and began his ministry in the diocese of Córdoba, where he served with great devotion and care. Eventually, he was appointed as the parish priest in Villa del Río, a small but vibrant community.

In Villa del Río, Blessed Santiago Calero Redondo became deeply connected with his parishioners, demonstrating a genuine love for their spiritual well-being. He tirelessly provided pastoral care, offering guidance, sacraments, and support to the people entrusted to his care. Through his sermons and teachings, he sought to strengthen the faith of his flock and encourage them to lead virtuous lives.

Tragically, during the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, the Catholic Church and its clergy faced severe persecution. Despite the danger, Blessed Santiago Calero Redondo refused to abandon his duty as a priest. He courageously chose to remain steadfast in his commitment to God and his community, even in the face of violent opposition.

On 19 August 1936, in Villa del Río, Cordoba, Blessed Santiago was martyred for his unwavering faith. He became a victim of the religious persecution that swept through Spain during the war. His martyrdom was a testament to his unyielding dedication to Christ and his determination to serve the faithful, even in the midst of brutal oppression.

Recognizing his exemplary life and death, Pope Francis proclaimed Blessed Santiago Calero Redondo as a martyr on 23 November 2020. The Pope's decree of martyrdom acknowledged the sacrificial and heroic nature of his witness to the Christian faith.

Then, on 16 October 2021, Pope Francis presided over the beatification recognition ceremony for Blessed Santiago Calero Redondo. The joyous event took place at the Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción in Córdoba, Spain and was led by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro. Beatification is an official recognition by the Church that a person has reached the heights of holiness and is worthy of veneration.

Now, Blessed Santiago Calero Redondo stands as a beacon of inspiration and intercession for the faithful. His feast day is celebrated on 19 August each year, commemorating the anniversary of his martyrdom. Devotees turn to him as a patron of priests, for guidance in their spiritual journeys, and for strength to face challenges with unwavering faith.

Blessed Santiago's life reminds us of the profound sacrifices that many clergy and faithful made during times of religious persecution. His dedication to his vocation exemplifies the courage and unwavering commitment shown by countless martyrs throughout history. May his example continue to inspire us to remain steadfast in our faith and to stand up for the truth, even in the face of adversity.