Blessed Sergio Cid Pazo

Biography

Blessed Sergio Cid Pazo, also known as Sergio Cid or Sergius Cid, was born on 24 April 1884 in the town of Allariz, Orense, Spain. From a young age, he felt a strong calling to religious life and eventually joined the Salesians, a religious congregation founded by Saint John Bosco.

Sergio entered the Salesian novitiate and made his religious profession in 1905. After completing his initial formation, he furthered his studies at the Sarria seminary near Barcelona. Deeply dedicated to his vocation, Sergio was ordained a priest in the Salesian order.

During the turbulent period of the Spanish Civil War, Father Sergio Cid Pazo became a victim of religious persecution. On 30 July 1936, while walking on the streets of Barcelona, he was stopped by militia forces who accused him of being a priest. Fearlessly embracing his calling, Father Sergio did not deny his identity but affirmed, "Yes, I am a Salesian priest." Tragically, this courageous acknowledgment led to his immediate execution at an inclined railway station in Barcelona.

Father Sergio Cid Pazo was recognized as a martyr for his unwavering faith and dedication to his priestly mission. His selfless sacrifice and firm commitment to Christ earned him the title of Blessed. Pope John Paul II, acknowledging his martyrdom and the exemplary Christian virtues that he displayed, declared Father Sergio a martyr on 20 December 1999.

The beatification ceremony for Blessed Sergio Cid Pazo took place on 11 March 2001, also presided over by Pope John Paul II. He is commemorated on two feast days: 30 July, the day of his martyrdom, and 22 September, as one of the Martyred Salesians of Valencia, Catalonia, and Aragon.

Blessed Sergio Cid Pazo represents a powerful example of unwavering faith and steadfast commitment in the face of persecution. His life and martyrdom inspire believers to remain faithful to their calling and to courageously stand up for Christ, even in the most challenging circumstances.