Saint Francisco Díaz Del Rincón

Biography

Saint Francisco Díaz Del Rincón, also known as Francisco Diego Del Rincón, was born on 2 October 1713 in Ecija, Seville, Spain. At a young age, he joined the Dominican Order in Ecija and professed his religious vows on 12 September 1731. In 1735, Francisco was sent as a missionary to the Philippines. His dedication and fervour in spreading the Catholic faith caught the attention of his superiors, who then assigned him to missionary work in China. Despite the risks involved, Francisco eagerly embraced this new mission. Arriving in China, Francisco committed himself to evangelizing the local population while also learning the Chinese language and culture to effectively communicate with the people. He faced numerous challenges, including language barriers and cultural differences, but his deep faith and love for God kept him steadfast. Francisco's missionary work in China was not without danger. The local authorities viewed Catholicism as a threat and actively sought to suppress its influence. In 1748, during a period of increased persecution against Christians, Francisco was captured and thrown into prison in the city of Fu-tsheu. The accounts of Francisco's martyrdom reveal the immense suffering he endured for the sake of his faith. Despite being subjected to torture, Francisco refused to renounce his beliefs and remained steadfast in his commitment to Christ. On the evening of 28 October 1748, he was cruelly strangled to death in prison. Following his martyrdom, Francisco's relics were enshrined in the church of Saint Dominic in Manila, Philippines, where he had served as a missionary before being sent to China. His sacrifice and unwavering dedication to spreading the Gospel were recognized by Pope Leo XIII, who declared his martyrdom on 6 January 1893. Pope Leo XIII then beatified Francisco Díaz Del Rincón on 14 May 1893, recognizing him as a blessed servant of God. Finally, on 1 October 2000, Pope John Paul II canonized him, declaring him a saint of the Catholic Church. As a martyr of China, Saint Francisco Díaz Del Rincón is honored on two feast days: 28 October, the day of his death, and 28 September as one of the Martyrs of China. His life and witness serve as an inspiration to all Christians, particularly missionaries, who strive to bring the message of Christ's love to the world. Though the patronage of Saint Francisco Díaz Del Rincón is not officially recognized, many may invoke his intercession as a fearless witness of the faith.