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Feast Day: July 29
Birth: February 11, 1912
Death: July 29, 1936
Blessed Saturnino Jaunsarás Zabaleta, also known as Herminio Pascual, was a revered Monk and a member of the Marist Brothers of the Schools. He was born on 11 February 1912 in Irurzun, Navarra, Spain, to a devout Catholic family. From a young age, Saturnino displayed a deep love for God and a strong desire to dedicate his life to serving others.
Saturnino entered the Marist Brothers of the Schools, a religious congregation known for their commitment to education and spiritual guidance. He immersed himself in their charism and embraced a life dedicated to prayer, teaching, and nurturing the spiritual formation of young people.
During the turbulent years of the Spanish Civil War, the Catholic Church faced intense persecution for openly practicing their faith. The war became a testing ground for the commitment and faith of many religious figures, including Saturnino. Despite the risks, he fearlessly continued to live out his vocation, providing support to his fellow Marist Brothers and offering spiritual guidance to those in need.
Tragically, on 29 July 1936, Saturnino was martyred in Casa de Campo, Madrid, Spain, a victim of the brutal violence that swept the country during that time. He remained steadfast in his faith until the end, witnessing to the love of Christ in the face of persecution and hatred.
Blessed Saturnino Jaunsarás Zabaleta's life and sacrifice have not been forgotten. On 3 June 2013, Pope Francis recognized his heroic virtues and declared him venerable, acknowledging his exceptional holiness. Later, on 13 October 2013, Pope Francis beatified Saturnino, bestowing upon him the title of "Blessed" and offering him as a model of faith and courage for the Church and the world.
The Feast Day of Blessed Saturnino Jaunsarás Zabaleta is celebrated on 29 July, the day of his martyrdom. On this day, the Catholic faithful remember his selfless dedication to God, his unwavering commitment to the faith, and his ultimate sacrifice for the cause of Christ.
Blessed Saturnino's life inspires us to remain faithful to our calling, even in the face of adversity. He serves as a reminder that true holiness and virtue can be found in every walk of life, and that the witness of martyrs continues to shine a light on the path of discipleship for all believers.