A portrait of St. Cristóbal Magallanes Jara
St. Cristóbal Magallanes Jara
July 30, 1869 – May 25, 1927
Feast
May 21 · XX c.
Patron of
Persecuted Christians · The people of Mexico · The Cristero martyrs
Order
Priest / Martyr
Mexican parish priest of Totatiche and leader of the Cristero martyrs. Falsely accused of fomenting the Cristero rebellion, he was arrested while traveling to celebrate Mass and shot without trial during the anti-Catholic persecutions of the Calles government. With twenty-four companion priests and laymen executed during the same period, he is venerated as a witness of the Mexican Church's resistance to state-imposed atheism.
Life & Times
Also known as: Cristóbal Magallanes; Cristóbal Magallanes and Companions · Born: July 30, 1869 · Died: May 25, 1927 · From: Totatiche, Jalisco, Mexico.
Patronage
St. Cristóbal Magallanes Jara is invoked as the patron of persecuted christians, the people of mexico, the cristero martyrs. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
“I am innocent, but I die innocent and forgive my enemies. May my blood be the seed of peace for our divided Mexico.”— His final words before execution by the Mexican government, May 25, 1927, recorded by witnesses
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Cristóbal Magallanes Jara, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.