Catholic Saint
St. José Sánchez del Río
“A courageous teenage martyr who bravely upheld his Christian faith during the Cristero War.”
- Feast Day:
- February 10
- Patron Saint of:
- Persecuted Christians, Mexican youth
- Lived:
- 1913-1928 — Mexico
Biography
St. José Sánchez del Río was a young Mexican martyr who lost his life at the tender age of 14 for his unwavering commitment to Christ during the Cristero War. After refusing to renounce his faith, he was tortured and ultimately executed, becoming a symbol of youthful conviction and resistance. His powerful legacy continues to inspire countless young people to stand firm in their beliefs.
Quotes from St. José Sánchez del Río
“Viva Cristo Rey!”
“Tell my parents I will see them in Heaven.”
“I will never give in to the threats of men!”
Prayer to St. José Sánchez del Río
Viva Cristo Rey!
Did You Know?
St. José was martyred just days after he was captured, showcasing extraordinary bravery for someone so young.
Saints with Similar Spiritual Gifts
St. Anna Wang
“A 14-year-old Chinese girl martyred during the Boxer Rebellion for refusing to renounce her Christian faith.”
St. Anuarite Nengapeta
“A Congolese religious sister who was martyred for defending her vow of chastity during the Simba Rebellion.”
St. Charles Lwanga
“The chief of the Uganda Martyrs, a young courtier who protected pages from the king's abuse and was burned alive for his faith.”
St. Devasahayam Pillai
“The first Indian layperson to be canonized, a Hindu convert who was martyred for his faith in 18th-century southern India.”