No image available
Feast Day: July 25
Birth: August 31, 1912
Death: July 25, 1936
Blessed Vicente Fernández Castrillo, also known as Brother Vicente Justino, was a devoted member of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. He was born on August 31, 1912, in Piedrahita de Muño, a small town in Burgos, Spain. Vicente dedicated his life to the service of God and joined the religious congregation known as the Brothers of the Christian Schools, or the De La Salle Brothers.
Vicente's strong faith and commitment to education led him to become a teacher. He wholeheartedly embraced his mission to provide a wholesome education to children, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Vicente's gentle and compassionate nature endeared him to his students, who found in him not only an educator but also a mentor and a role model.
Sadly, during the turbulent years of the Spanish Civil War, Vicente's life and work were cut short by the violence and persecution directed towards Catholic clergy and religious. On July 25, 1936, in Montcada, Barcelona, Vicente was martyred for his unwavering faith and his refusal to renounce his religious vocation.
Venerated for his dedication and sacrifice, Vicente's martyrdom was officially recognized by Pope John Paul II on June 22, 2004, through a decree of martyrdom. This acknowledgment reinforced the belief that Vicente had willingly sacrificed his life out of fidelity to his Catholic beliefs. It also recognized his steadfast commitment to the mission of educating and instilling Christian values in the youth.
Blessed Vicente Fernández Castrillo's beatification took place on October 28, 2007, under the pontificate of Pope Benedict XVI. This ceremony elevated him to the status of beatitude, signifying his exemplary life and death as a martyr for the Catholic faith.
Blessed Vicente, with his profound devotion, continues to be remembered and venerated by the faithful. His feast day is celebrated on July 25 each year, a day dedicated to honoring his memory and seeking his intercession.
Although specific details about his representation are not readily available, it is believed that Blessed Vicente Fernández Castrillo's life and martyrdom offer valuable lessons in faith, dedication, and courage. His unwavering commitment to education and the principles of the Christian faith serve as an inspiration for teachers, educators, and religious individuals worldwide.