July 20
Rita Dolores Pujalte Sánchez and Francisca Aldea Araujo (+1936)
Priests
These two religious school teachers spent part of their lives at the Santa Susana school in Madrid, dedicated to teaching poor and orphan girls.
Biography
During the Spanish Civil War, when the persecution of priests and nuns began, the community chose to remain at the school to care for the girls. On July 20, 1936, the school was attacked and shot at. Mothers Rita Dolores and Francisca, as soon as they heard that the arrival of the militiamen was imminent, went to the chapel to prepare for martyrdom. They generously extended advance forgiveness to their executioners and prepared for death, which they felt was certain, and which actually arrived when they were taken out of a van on the Barajas highway to be shot. Eyewitnesses marveled at the serenity of their faces and the perfume their mortal remains gave off. Everywhere they left a trail of holiness and simplicity.
Practical advice
Without seeking recognition, accept a setback without complaining without seeking applause or recognition.