Blessed Saturnino Sanz Y Sanz

Biography

Blessed Saturnino Sanz Y Sanz, also known as Pablo de la Cruz, was born on 9 April 1879 in Riaza, Segovia, Spain. He was a professed religious in the Brothers of the Christian Schools, commonly known as the De La Salle Brothers. His deep commitment to the faith led him on a path of service to others, particularly in the field of education.

Blessed Saturnino Sanz Y Sanz entered the De La Salle Brothers' novitiate and professed his religious vows, dedicating his life to the education of youth. He demonstrated great dedication and zeal in his mission, teaching and nurturing students with love and compassion. His innate abilities as an educator allowed him to touch the lives of countless young people, instilling in them valuable knowledge, moral values, and a deep faith.

However, during the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, religious persecution was rampant, and Christians became targets of violence and oppression. Blessed Saturnino Sanz Y Sanz courageously chose to remain in Spain, continuing to fulfill his vocation despite the dangers.

Tragically, on 30 November 1936, Blessed Saturnino Sanz Y Sanz met his martyrdom in Paracuellos de Jarama, Madrid. Amidst the chaos of the Spanish Civil War, he was killed for his unwavering commitment to the Catholic faith and his refusal to renounce his religious calling.

Blessed Saturnino Sanz Y Sanz's life and death exemplify his unwavering faith, sacrificial love, and dedication to his students. His martyrdom stands as a testament to his profound belief in the importance of education and his willingness to lay down his life for the sake of the Gospel.

His cause for beatification was initiated, and on 19 December 2011, Pope Benedict XVI recognized him as a martyr, decreeing his martyrdom. This acknowledgment by the Pope further solidified Blessed Saturnino Sanz Y Sanz's reputation as a saintly figure within the Catholic Church.

Blessed Saturnino Sanz Y Sanz was finally beatified on 13 October 2013 by Pope Francis, who recognized his heroic virtue and his ultimate sacrifice for the faith.

Today, Blessed Saturnino Sanz Y Sanz serves as an inspiration and a model for all those involved in the field of education, reminding us of the importance of faith, love, and dedication in shaping young minds and transforming society. His feast day is celebrated on 30 November, the day he was martyred, and his profound impact lives on in the hearts of the faithful.