Saint David Uribevelasco

Biography

Saint David Uribevelasco, also known as David Uribe, was born on 29 December 1888 in Buenavista de Cuellar, Guerrero, Mexico. He was the seventh child of a poor family, Juan Uribe Ayal and Victoriana Velasco Gutierrez, who had a total of eleven children. David was baptized on 6 January 1889, and from a young age, he displayed a strong calling to serve God. At the age of 14, in 1903, he entered the seminary at Chilapa, where he proved to be an excellent student. His dedication and commitment to his studies became evident, and he progressed quickly in his formation. In 1910, David became a sub-deacon, and the following year, in 1911, he was ordained as a deacon. Finally, on 2 March 1913, he was ordained as a priest. His journey toward the priesthood had been marked by devotion and an unwavering commitment to his vocation. Initially serving as a parish priest at Buenavista de Cuellar, David's skills and dedication caught the attention of Bishop Antonio Hernandez Rodriguez of Tobasco. He was appointed as the bishop's secretary, a role that allowed him to assist in various pastoral responsibilities and gain valuable experience in the church hierarchy. In 1914, David and Bishop Rodriguez were directed to relocate to Chilapa, Guerrero, due to the anti-religious violence erupting across the country. Tragically, their ship sank during the voyage, but by the grace of God, David, the bishop, and four others survived the ordeal. David continued his pastoral duties as a parish priest, serving in Zirandaro. However, the Zapatista uprisings forced him to return to Chilapa. Despite the challenging circumstances, he remained dedicated to the spiritual needs of his parishioners and shared their struggles during turbulent times. On 30 July 1926, the bishops of Mexico, concerned for public safety, ordered a halt to public worship and the closure of churches. David, though reluctant, obediently followed the order. However, driven by his unwavering faith and commitment to his calling, he later returned covertly to his pastoral duties, risking his safety to provide spiritual guidance and support to those in need. It was on 7 April 1927 that David's faith and sacrificial service were put to the ultimate test. The military arrested him and took him to Cuernavaca. There, he faced a daunting choice - he was offered freedom if he would become a bishop in the schismatic church subservient to the government. However, David's loyalty to the true faith and his commitment to the Church led him to decline the offer firmly. Aware of the possible consequences of his decision, David wrote his will on 11 April 1927, preparing for what he believed lay ahead. The following day, he was driven to a remote location near San Jose Vidal, Morales. Remaining faithful even in the face of martyrdom, David prayed for himself and his executioners. He showed Christ-like compassion by giving his belongings to them and promising to pray for them in the next life. On 12 April 1927, Saint David Uribevelasco was martyred, shot in the back of the head. Recognizing his unwavering faith, sacrificial service, and courage, Pope John Paul II decreed the martyrdom of Saint David Uribevelasco on 7 March 1992. On 22 November 1992, Pope John Paul II beatified him, and on 21 May 2000, during the Jubilee of Mexico, Saint David Uribevelasco was canonized. Saint David Uribevelasco is remembered for his devotion to God and his selfless dedication to the spiritual needs of his parishioners, even in the face of great adversity. His life and martyrdom serve as an inspiration and example of faith, courage, and commitment to the Catholic Church.