Blessed Segundo Pérez Arias

Biography

Blessed Segundo Pérez Arias, also known as Ildefonso of Armellada, was a Franciscan Capuchin priest and martyr in the Spanish Civil War. He was born on 2 May 1874 in Armellada, León, Spain. As a young man, Segundo felt a deep calling to serve God and entered the Capuchin Franciscan Order.

After completing his studies, Segundo was ordained as a priest and dedicated his life to the service of others. He was known for his humility, kindness, and devotion to the Franciscan ideals of poverty, simplicity, and fraternity. As a Capuchin friar, he lived a life of prayer, solitude, and community, seeking to emulate the example of Saint Francis of Assisi.

During the turbulent years of the Spanish Civil War, Segundo remained steadfast in his faith and unwavering commitment to his vocation despite the dangers and persecution faced by the Church. He continued to minister to his flock, providing spiritual guidance, comfort, and sacraments to those in need.

It was on 14 August 1936 that Segundo's life of selfless service and faithfulness to his calling ultimately led to his martyrdom. He was in Jove, Asturias, when he was arrested for his religious beliefs. Despite the dire circumstances, Segundo never wavered in his devotion to Christ and the Church. He remained resolute, offering forgiveness to his captors and praying for those who persecuted him.

His unwavering faith and courageous witness to the Gospel in the face of persecution have made him a revered figure in the Catholic Church. After a thorough investigation into his life, martyrdom, and reputation for holiness, Pope Francis declared Segundo Pérez Arias a martyr, officially recognizing his heroic virtue and the offering of his life for the faith.

On 13 October 2013, Pope Francis beatified Segundo Pérez Arias, recognizing him as a model of Christian virtue and a faithful servant of God. His feast day is celebrated on 14 August each year, commemorating the day of his martyrdom.

Blessed Segundo Pérez Arias continues to inspire the faithful with his extraordinary witness and reminder of the sacrifice made by countless individuals during a time of great turmoil in Spain. His faithful life, steadfastness in the face of persecution, and ultimate sacrifice serve as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the call to love and serve God unconditionally.