Santos y Mártires

Heroes of the Movement

The Cristiada gave the Church a generation of martyrs. Twenty-five were canonized in 2000 by St. John Paul II; others have since been beatified.

St. José Sánchez del Río

Young martyr · 1913–1928

Killed at fourteen for refusing to renounce Christ the King, José walked to his execution barefoot, singing hymns. His final words, ¡Viva Cristo Rey!, made him a symbol of youthful fidelity. Canonized by Pope Francis in 2016.

Feast: February 10

Bl. Miguel Agustín Pro, S.J.

Priest & martyr · 1891–1927

A Jesuit priest who ministered in secret throughout Mexico City under disguise. Falsely accused, he was executed by firing squad, arms outstretched in the form of a cross, crying ¡Viva Cristo Rey!. Beatified in 1988.

Feast: November 23

St. Cristóbal Magallanes Jara

Priest & martyr · 1869–1927

Pastor of Totatiche, Jalisco, who founded a clandestine seminary when the public one was closed. Arrested while traveling to celebrate Mass and executed without trial. Canonized in 2000 with 24 companion martyrs.

Feast: May 21

Full Roster

Canonized Cristero Martyrs

Click any name to read the full biography. New martyrs are added as research is completed.