Saint Agustin Caloca Cortes

Biography

Saint Agustin Caloca Cortes, also known as Agustin Caloca or Augustine Caloca, was born on 5 May 1898 in Teul, Zecatecas, Mexico. He began his religious studies at the seminary in Guadalajara, Mexico, but unfortunately, the seminary was closed down by anti-clerical government forces. However, this setback did not deter him, as he persevered in his vocation and continued his studies in the covert Auxiliary Seminary of Our Lady of Guadalajara, which was founded by Saint Cristobal Magallanes. Agustin Caloca's passion and dedication to the priesthood led him to be ordained on 5 August 1923. After his ordination, he served as the prefect of the Auxiliary Seminary, guiding and nurturing future priests in their formation. However, his commitment to his religious work attracted the attention of the authorities, and he was arrested and falsely accused of involvement in the armed Cristeros rebellion. Unfortunately, Saint Agustin Caloca Cortes, along with Saint Cristobal Magallanes, met a tragic fate due to their unwavering dedication to their faith. On 25 May 1927, they were both martyred, executed by being shot in Colotitlan, Jalisco, Mexico. Their martyrdom was a result of their refusal to renounce their religious beliefs and stop engaging in their religious work. Saint Agustin Caloca Cortes was recognized as one of the Martyrs of the Cristera War, a conflict in Mexico that fought against governmental oppression of religious freedom. His feast day is celebrated on 25 May, commemorating his death, and he is also honored on 21 May as one of the Martyrs of the Mexican Revolution. The relics of Saint Agustin Caloca Cortes are venerated at the chapel in his birthplace of Teul, Zecatecas, Mexico. The holy remains serve as a reminder of his sacrifice and the courageous witness he provided for his faith. In recognition of his martyrdom, Pope John Paul II declared the decree of martyrdom on 7 March 1992, leading to Saint Agustin Caloca Cortes' beatification on 22 November 1992. Furthermore, during the Jubilee of Mexico, Pope John Paul II canonized him as a saint on 21 May 2000. His canonization was a testament to his exemplary life, his unwavering dedication to his faith, and the inspiring example he set for Catholics worldwide. Saint Agustin Caloca Cortes does not have a designated patronage, but his life and martyrdom continue to inspire and serve as a beacon of faith for all who encounter his story.