May 24, 2018

β›ͺ Blessed John del Prado - Martyr

Blessed John del Prado,
Pray for us!
β›ͺ Saint of the Day: May 24

β›ͺ Other Names: β€’ Giovanni di Prado β€’ John of Prado

β›ͺ Born: Morgobresio, Kingdom of LΓ©on, Spain

β›ͺ Died: Burned to death on 24 May 1636 at Morocco

Early Life and Religious Calling

Blessed John del Prado was born in Morgovejo, Spain, around 1563. From a young age, he demonstrated a profound religious fervor and a desire to dedicate his life to God. He joined the Franciscan Order, where he was noted for his piety, humility, and dedication to prayer and service. John del Prado was ordained a priest and became a member of the Franciscan Province of Saint Didacus.

Missionary Work

Blessed John del Prado felt a strong calling to missionary work and sought to spread the Christian faith in distant lands. His zeal for evangelization led him to volunteer for the Franciscan missions in Morocco. At that time, Morocco was predominantly Muslim, and the presence of Christian missionaries was often met with hostility. Despite the risks, John del Prado and his companions were determined to bring the message of Christ to the people of Morocco.

Martyrdom

In 1631, Blessed John del Prado, along with two fellow Franciscans, was captured by the Moroccan authorities. They were imprisoned and subjected to severe torture to force them to renounce their Christian faith and convert to Islam. Despite the relentless persecution, John del Prado remained steadfast in his faith, refusing to renounce his beliefs. His unwavering commitment to Christ ultimately led to his martyrdom. He was brutally killed for his faith on September 24, 1631.

Beatification and Legacy

Blessed John del Prado was beatified by Pope Pius XI on January 24, 1926, recognizing his sacrifice and steadfast faith in the face of persecution. His feast day is celebrated on September 24, the day of his martyrdom. Blessed John del Prado is remembered as a courageous missionary who gave his life for the spread of the Gospel and as a symbol of unwavering faith and devotion.

Miracles and Devotion

While specific miracles attributed to Blessed John del Prado are not well-documented, his beatification was based on the recognition of his martyrdom and the exemplary life he led as a missionary and priest. Devotees often seek his intercession for strength in faith, courage in the face of adversity, and the grace to remain steadfast in their Christian beliefs.

Prayers to Blessed John del Prado

Prayer for Courage and Faith
O Blessed John del Prado,
You gave your life in witness to the faith,
Enduring persecution and martyrdom with unwavering courage.
Intercede for us before the Lord,
That we may be granted the strength to remain faithful
In the face of trials and challenges.
May your example inspire us to live lives
Of deep faith and devotion.
Amen.

Prayer for Missionaries
Blessed John del Prado,
Patron of missionaries and martyrs,
We ask for your intercession for all those
Who spread the Gospel in difficult and dangerous places.
Protect them from harm and give them the grace
To continue their mission with courage and perseverance.
May they be instruments of God's love and mercy,
Bringing hope and faith to all they encounter.
Amen.

Prayer for Strength in Adversity
O Blessed John del Prado,
You stood firm in your faith even unto death.
Pray for us, that we may have the courage
To hold fast to our beliefs in times of trial.
Help us to trust in God's providence and to remain faithful,
Knowing that He is with us in all our struggles.
Through your intercession, may we be strengthened
To live out our faith with integrity and courage.
Amen.
.

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