Martyred Hospitallers of Madrid

Biography

The Martyred Hospitallers of Madrid, also known as the Blessed Ángel Sastre Corporales, Blessed Antonio Hilario Delgado Vílchez, Blessed Antonio Meléndez Sánchez, Blessed Clemente Díez Sahagún, Blessed Eduardo Bautista Jiménez, Blessed Isidoro Martínez Izquierdo, Blessed José Mora Velasco, Blessed José Ruiz Cuesta, Blessed Juan Alcalde y Alcalde, Blessed Juan Jesús Adradas Gonzalo, Blessed Juan María Múgica Goiburu, Blessed Julián Plazaola Artola, Blessed Pedro de Alcántara Bernalte Calzado, Blessed Pedro María Alcalde Negredo, and Blessed Vicente Andrés Llop Gaya, were a group of fifteen priests, brothers, and novices who were all members of the Hospitallers of Saint John of God. They were martyred together during the Spanish Civil War.

These courageous individuals dedicated their lives to the service of others, following the example of Saint John of God, who founded the Hospitallers to care for the sick and marginalized. The martyred Hospitallers were fervent in their faith and committed to their calling, providing medical assistance, spiritual comfort, and support to those in need.

On November 28, 1936, tragedy struck when the fifteen Hospitallers were martyred in Paracuellos de Jarama, Madrid, Spain. They faced persecution and violence during a time of intense religious and political turmoil. Their unwavering commitment to their faith and their mission brought them face to face with martyrdom, becoming an emblem of bravery in the face of oppression.

Their sacrifice did not go unnoticed, as the Church recognized their heroic witness. On May 14, 1991, Pope John Paul II declared their martyrdom with a decree, acknowledging their fidelity to Christ and their unwavering dedication to serving others. Their martyrdom was a testament to their profound love for God and their willingness to lay down their lives for their faith.

Two years later, on October 25, 1992, Pope John Paul II beatified the Martyred Hospitallers of Madrid, formally recognizing their sanctity and elevating them to the status of blessed. This honor served as an inspiration to the faithful, reminding them of the immeasurable value of selflessness, compassion, and faithfulness to God.

Although there might not be extensive biographical information available about each individual martyr, their collective witness remains an inspiration to countless individuals. The Martyred Hospitallers of Madrid serve as a reminder of the profound impact that individuals, possessed by a deep faith and dedication to service, can have on the world. Their feast day is celebrated on November 28th, commemorating their ultimate sacrifice for their faith.

While there may not be specific patronages assigned to them or significant books or artworks solely dedicated to their memory, their example stands as a testament to the power of selfless service in the face of adversity. Their memory lives on as a reminder of the importance of compassion, love, and sacrifice in our daily lives.