Blessed Sebastián Obeso Alario

Biography

Blessed Sebastián Obeso Alario, also known as Brother Honorio Sebastián, was a member of the Brothers of the Christian Schools and a martyr of the Spanish Civil War. He was born on 12 December 1910 in Añoza, León, Spain.

Sebastián Obeso Alario led a dedicated life as a Christian Brother, devoting himself to the education and spiritual formation of young people. He lived during a tumultuous period in Spain's history, marked by political and social unrest. The Spanish Civil War, which broke out in 1936, brought about a wave of violence and persecution against Catholics and religious orders.

During this turbulent time, Sebastián Obeso Alario courageously remained faithful to his religious vocation, despite the dangers that surrounded him. He continued to educate and inspire his students with the values of the Christian faith and the teachings of the Church.

Tragically, on 19 September 1936, Sebastián Obeso Alario was martyred for his unwavering commitment to the Catholic faith. He was killed in Tarragona, Spain, alongside many other religious and laypeople who were targeted by anti-Catholic forces during the Spanish Civil War. His willingness to sacrifice his life for his beliefs is a testament to his deep faith and dedication to the principles of the Gospel.

Sebastián Obeso Alario's martyrdom did not go unnoticed by the Church. On 28 June 2012, Pope Benedict XVI decreed his martyrdom, recognizing his heroic death as being for the sake of the faith. This decree paved the way for his beatification, which took place on 13 October 2013, celebrated by Pope Francis in Tarragona, Spain.

The beatification of Blessed Sebastián Obeso Alario serves as a reminder of the countless men and women who gave their lives during the Spanish Civil War for their religious convictions. It stands as a testament to the enduring faith and steadfastness of the Catholic Church in the face of persecution.

Today, Blessed Sebastián Obeso Alario is venerated as a martyr and a model of Christian virtue. His life and witness continue to inspire believers, calling them to live their faith fearlessly and unwaveringly, even in the most challenging of circumstances. His feast day is celebrated on 19 September each year, commemorating the day of his martyrdom.