Jesuit Priest and Martyr (1891-1927)
His life
+ Miguel was born in Zacatecas, Mexico. In 1911, he entered the Society of Jesus and his studies took him to the United States, Spain, and Belgium where he was ordained in 1926.
+ After returning to Mexico, Miguel carried out his ministry in secret because of the religious persecutions brought on by the Mexican Revolution.
+ Arrested on false charges and condemned to death, he was shot to death on the morning of November 23, 1927. Extending his arms in the form of a cross, he spoke his last words: ¡Viva Cristo Rey!
+ Blessed Miguel Pro was beatified in 1988.
For prayer and reflection
“Deceitful are the ephemeral pleasures and joys of this world. Our supreme comfort, in this life, is to die to the world that we may live with Jesus Crucified. Let others seek gold and other earthly treasures. I already possess the immortal treasure of holy poverty on the Cross of Jesus Crucified.”—Blessed Miguel Pro
Spiritual bonus
On November 23, the Church also honors the memory of Pope Saint Clement I (d. 99) and the Irish missionary and abbot Saint Columban (d. 615).
Prayer
Our God and Father,
who conferred upon your servant Blessed Miguel Agustín Pro
the grace of ardently seeking your greater glory
and the salvation of others,
grant through his intercession and example,
that by faithfully and joyfully performing our daily duties
and effectively assisting those around us,
we may serve you with zeal
and ever seek your glory.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
(from The Roman Missal)
Saint profiles prepared by Brother Silas Henderson, S.D.S.
And today we celebrate...