Martyrs of Manzanares

Biography

The Martyrs of Manzanares, also known as the Daimiel Martyrs, were a group of Passionist priests and clerics who were martyred together during the Spanish Civil War. They courageously gave their lives for their faith and are remembered as exemplary witnesses of Christ's love and sacrifice. Anatolio García Nozal was born on February 14, 1888, in Cervera de Pisuerga, Palencia, Spain. He entered the Passionist congregation and professed his religious vows on October 4, 1905. He dedicated himself to a life of prayer, contemplation, and ministry, faithfully serving the Church and its people. Eufrasio De Celis Santos was born on October 27, 1896, in San Rafael de los Navarros, Zaragoza, Spain. He became a Passionist priest and professed his religious vows on September 4, 1913. He possessed a strong commitment to his ministry and served faithfully as a preacher and confessor. Fulgencio Calvo Sánchez was born on July 20, 1877, in Callosa de Segura, Alicante, Spain. He entered the Passionist congregation and took his vows on October 4, 1891. With great dedication, he served as a preacher and confessor, offering spiritual guidance and support to countless individuals. Honorino Carracedo Ramos was born on September 17, 1916, in Lastra del Cano, Cáceres, Spain. He joined the Passionists and made his religious profession on October 24, 1934. Despite his young age, he displayed a remarkable zeal for his faith and actively participated in the religious activities of his community. José María Cuartero Gascón was born on September 19, 1907, in Villarquemado, Teruel, Spain. He became a Passionist priest and professed his vows on September 3, 1923. He dedicated himself to his ministry, serving as a preacher, confessor, and spiritual director, providing solace and guidance to those in need. Justiniano Cuesta Redondo was born on March 28, 1890, in Daimiel, Ciudad Real, Spain. He joined the Passionists and professed his religious vows on September 15, 1905. Known for his humility and piety, he faithfully carried out his duties within the Passionist community. Tomás Cuartero Gascón, brother of José María Cuartero Gascón, was born on December 19, 1901, in Villarquemado, Teruel, Spain. He joined the Passionists and took his vows on September 15, 1916. With great devotion to his vocation, he dedicated himself to the service of God and the Church. On October 23, 1936, in Manzanares, Ciudad Real, Spain, these seven Passionist priests and clerics were arrested and imprisoned for their religious beliefs. They endured harsh conditions and persecution with unwavering faith and hope. Despite the fear and uncertainty they faced, they remained steadfast and resolute in their commitment to Christ. Finally, on October 23, 1936, these courageous martyrs were executed, freely and willingly laying down their lives for the sake of the Gospel. They remained steadfast in their faith until the very end, offering their lives as a testimony to the love and truth of Christ. Recognizing their heroic virtue and witness, Pope John Paul II declared their martyrdom on November 28, 1988. They were beatified on October 1, 1989, with great joy and celebration within the Catholic Church. The Martyrs of Manzanares inspire us all to be steadfast in our faith and to remain true to our convictions, even in the face of persecution. Their sacrifice serves as a reminder of the cost of discipleship and the power of genuine Christian witness. May their example continue to resonate and inspire generations to come.