April 1
Anacleto González Flores and eight companions, martyrs (†1927–1928)
Martyrs
Lawyer, husband, father of a family, catechist and Catholic leader from Jalisco, Anacleto González Flores defended religious freedom through civic means during persecution in Mexico.
Biography
Together with eight companions—committed laypeople and priests—he sustained communities through prayer, formation, and public witness. Arrested in Guadalajara, he was cruelly tortured to make him betray others; He refused and forgave his executioners before dying. The group gave their lives out of fidelity to Christ and the Church during the years of the Cristiada.
Practical advice
Defend a just cause today with calm arguments and honest means, without turning the adversary into a personal enemy.
Example of
FortitudeFaithfulnessSacrifice