José Sánchez del Río

1913-1928 20th century Feast day: February 10

A child's faithfulness stronger than fear, the gladness of self-gift.

Who was José Sánchez del Río?

A Mexican teenager of the Cristero war. Taken prisoner and ordered to renounce his faith, he refused. They flayed the soles of his feet and forced him to walk to the cemetery, where he was killed at fourteen.

In their own words

I think I am going to die, but it does not matter, mother. Resign yourself to the will of God.

Letter to his mother, 6 February 1928

Christ lives, Christ reigns, Christ commands, and Holy Mary of Guadalupe.

Letter to his aunt

Long live Christ the King.

Reported last words