Saint Justino Oronamadrigal

Biography

Saint Justino Oronamadrigal was a revered Catholic priest in the archdiocese of Guadalajara, Mexico. He was born on April 14, 1877, in the town of Cuyucapán, Atoyac, Jalisco, Mexico. From a young age, Justino displayed extraordinary piety and a deep devotion to his faith. As he grew older, Justino felt a strong calling to the priesthood. He sought education and training in the seminary and was ordained as a priest, dedicating his life to serving the people of God. Justino had a special affinity for the poor and marginalized, actively working to alleviate their suffering and address their needs. In addition to his pastoral duties, Justino also had a keen interest in monastic life. He founded the religious congregation known as the Hermanas Clarisas del Sagrado Corazón (Clarisas Sisters of the Sacred Heart). Through this community, Justino aimed to foster a life of prayer and contemplation, while also engaging in charitable works to help those in need. Unfortunately, Justino's life was marked by the turbulent times of the Mexican Revolution. As the conflict escalated, the Catholic Church faced persecution, with priests and religious being targeted. Despite the danger, Justino steadfastly refused to abandon his flock or renounce his faith. He continued to celebrate Mass, administer the sacraments, and provide spiritual guidance to the faithful. On July 1, 1928, Justino met a martyr's death in Las Cruces, Cuquío, Jalisco, Mexico. His refusal to compromise his religious convictions and his determination to stand in solidarity with his fellow Catholics made him a target for persecution. The brave priest was martyred for his unwavering faith and ultimate loyalty to God and His Church. Recognizing the sanctity of his life and the circumstances surrounding his death, Pope John Paul II proclaimed Justino Oronamadrigal a martyr on March 7, 1992. This declaration was followed by his beatification on November 22, 1992. Finally, on May 21, 2000, Pope John Paul II canonized Justino Oronamadrigal, declaring him a saint of the Catholic Church. Throughout his life and in his subsequent recognition as a saint, Justino Oronamadrigal serves as an inspiration to all individuals who strive to live a life of deep faith, selflessness, and dedication to serving others. His commitment to the poor and his unwavering loyalty to his religious beliefs make him a model of Christian virtue and martyrdom. Though his representation is currently unknown, Saint Justino Oronamadrigal's feast days are celebrated on July 1 and May 21 as one of the Martyrs of the Mexican Revolution.