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| Bl. Mariano de la Mata Aparício, Pray for us! |
⛪ Born: • 31 December 1905 in La Puebla de Valdavia, Palencia, Spain
⛪Died: • 5 April 1983 in São Paulo, Brazil of cancer • Interred at the church of Saint Augustine in São Paulo
⛪ Beatified: • 5 November 2006 by Pope Benedict XVI • The beatification miracle involved the healing of a child who had been run over by a truck • Recognition celebrated at the cathedral in São Paulo, Brazil, Cardinal José Saraiva Martins chief celebrant
Early Life
- Birth: Fr. Mariano de la Mata Aparicio was born on December 31, 1905, in La Puebla de Valdavia, Palencia, Spain.
- Family: He was the youngest of eight children in a devout Catholic family. His upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of faith and a desire to serve others.
Religious Calling
- Joining the Order: At the age of 15, Mariano joined the Order of St. Augustine (Augustinians), inspired by his faith and the example of other religious figures in his life.
- Education and Ordination: He pursued his religious studies diligently and was ordained a priest on July 25, 1930. His education and formation were marked by a deep commitment to the teachings of the Church and the principles of the Augustinian order.
Missionary Work in Brazil
- Arrival in Brazil: In 1931, just a year after his ordination, Fr. Mariano was sent to Brazil as a missionary. This marked the beginning of a lifelong dedication to serving the people of Brazil.
- Roles and Responsibilities: Over the decades, he took on various roles, including parish priest, educator, and administrator. He worked in numerous locations, including São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, always focusing on the needs of the poor and marginalized.
Contributions and Impact
- Education: Fr. Mariano was deeply involved in education, founding schools and educational programs that provided opportunities for countless children and young adults. His work in education was rooted in his belief that education was a powerful tool for personal and community development.
- Charity and Social Work: Known for his compassion and charity, Fr. Mariano established numerous initiatives to help the needy. His efforts included setting up food programs, healthcare services, and community support projects.
- Pastoral Care: His pastoral care was marked by personal attention to individuals, listening to their needs, and providing spiritual guidance. His dedication to visiting the sick and comforting those in distress made him a beloved figure in the communities he served.
Later Years and Legacy
- Recognition: Fr. Mariano's work did not go unnoticed. He received various accolades for his tireless efforts and the impact he had on countless lives. His humility, however, always kept him focused on his mission rather than seeking recognition.
- Death: Fr. Mariano de la Mata Aparicio passed away on April 5, 1983, in São Paulo, Brazil. His death was mourned by many who had been touched by his kindness and dedication.
- Beatification: In recognition of his life of virtue and service, Pope Benedict XVI declared Fr. Mariano de la Mata Aparicio venerable on December 20, 2004. He was beatified on November 5, 2006.
Spiritual Legacy
- Model of Faith: Fr. Mariano's life is a testament to the power of faith and service. His unwavering commitment to his religious vows and his tireless work for the well-being of others serve as an inspiration to many.
- Continued Influence: The schools, social programs, and communities he established continue to thrive, carrying forward his mission of education, charity, and pastoral care.
Fr. Mariano de la Mata Aparicio's life exemplifies the core principles of Christian charity, education, and pastoral care. His legacy lives on through the institutions he founded and the lives he touched, making him a revered figure in both Spain and Brazil. His beatification stands as a recognition of his extraordinary commitment to living out his faith through service to others.
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