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Lived: January 13, 1891 - November 23, 1927Beatified: September 25, 1988 by St. Pope John Paul II
Miguel was born in Mexico and from an early age was equally mischievous and spiritual. Near death accidents and illnesses did not deter him from his humor or practical jokes. However, when his older sister entered a cloistered convent, he began to discern his vocation. Ultimately, he gave up the opportunity to run his father's business in order to join the Jesuits.When anti-Catholicism entered Mexico during his novitiate and the order disbanded, he and a few fellow brother seminarians walked from Mexico to California to flee persecution. From there, he went to Spain to continue seminary until he was ordained in Belgium in 1925.Miguel was permitted to return to Mexico despite the serious religious persecution still occurring in the country. For the remainder of his life, he lived in the shadows celebrating Mass and the sacraments and tending to the flock under the government's nose. He had a closet full of disguises to allude the authorities, including a police officer's uniform to bring the Eucharist to those in prison. He always remained obedient in his ministry to his Jesuit superiors.Miguel was arrested when an assassination attempt on the Mexican president failed. After 10 days with no trial, he was sentenced to death - on paper for the assassination attempt, but in reality for all his work to thwart the government by serving the Catholic community. He walked to his execution, blessing those he passed. After kneeling in prayer and refusing a blindfold, he held his arms up in the shape of a cross (with a crucifix in one hand and a rosary in another), forgave his enemies, and exclaimed as the soldiers shot him, "Viva Cristo Rey!" or "Love love Christ the King!" It is estimated that 30,000 people attended his funeral procession.
For more details, check out: Ignatianspirituality.com or Loyola PressWays to Celebrate:
Decorate with Mexican flags and papel picado
Bl. Miguel used disguises of all kinds to evade arrest while serving as a priest to the people of Mexico.
Make a mask for kids to wear
Brainstorm ways to stay joyful amidst difficult situations, hold one another accountable to trying them out
Stand with arms outstretched in a cross while saying a prayer that God would give our priests the fortitude and courage of Miguel Pro, end with “Viva Cristo Rey!”
