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Feast Day: July 30
Birth: July 25, 1907
Death: July 30, 1936
Blessed Santiago De Prado Fernández, also known as Brother Mateo, was a Dominican friar who was martyred during the Spanish Civil War. He was born on July 25, 1907, in La Mata de Monteagudo, León, Spain. Santiago displayed a strong devotion to his Catholic faith from a young age, and this led him to join the Order of Preachers, commonly known as the Dominican Order.
As a Dominican friar, Santiago committed himself to a life of prayer, study, and preaching. He sought to bring the message of God's love and salvation to all those he encountered. Santiago's deep spirituality and dedication to the Dominican charism earned him the respect and admiration of his fellow friars.
Tragically, during the Spanish Civil War, which took place from 1936 to 1939, religious persecution was rampant. Santiago, along with many other Catholics and religious figures, became a target for those opposed to the Church. On July 30, 1936, Santiago was martyred in Miguelturra, Ciudad Real, Spain, for his unwavering faith and refusal to renounce his Catholic beliefs.
Despite the hardships and dangers he faced, Santiago remained steadfast in his commitment to Christ and the Church. His courage and endurance in the face of persecution serve as an inspiring example of faith and devotion. It is through his martyrdom that Santiago's sanctity and virtuous life were recognized.
On December 11, 2019, Pope Francis declared Santiago De Prado Fernández a martyr, venerated for his heroic fidelity to the Christian faith, through a decree of martyrdom. This official recognition by the Catholic Church acknowledges his sacrifice and honors his memory.
While the specific details regarding Santiago's beatification and any unnamed individuals related to his cause for sainthood are not provided, it is important to note that the process of beatification typically occurs after martyrdom is recognized. Thus, it is possible that Santiago's cause for beatification is underway or may have already been completed.
Blessed Santiago De Prado Fernández's life and martyrdom continue to inspire and encourage believers to stand firm in their faith, even in the face of adversity. Through his intercession, may we find the strength to remain faithful to our beliefs and follow the example of this courageous Dominican friar.