About the Book
Blessed José Sanchez del Río was 14 when he was martyred for his Faith. Joining the Cristero Army in 1927 to fight for religious freedom in Mexico, he was captured by government forces eight months later. When offered his freedom in exchange for denying his Catholic Faith, he refused. Tortured and forced to march to his grave, José never stopped crying out, “Viva Cristo Rey” – “Long live Christ the King!” He died as he had lived, a hero.
Beatified by the Catholic Church in 2005, Blessed José is a witness for our times. His story shows that age is no limit for bravery and heroism.
In Blessed José, Father Kevin McKenzie dramatizes the story of this boy martyr. Drawing on all existing sources in Spanish, as well as some never-before-seen government documents which recently came to light, Father McKenzie paints a vivid picture of the life and martyrdom of this inspiring 14-year-old witness.
Beatified by the Catholic Church in 2005, Blessed José is a witness for our times. His story shows that age is no limit for bravery and heroism.
In Blessed José, Father Kevin McKenzie dramatizes the story of this boy martyr. Drawing on all existing sources in Spanish, as well as some never-before-seen government documents which recently came to light, Father McKenzie paints a vivid picture of the life and martyrdom of this inspiring 14-year-old witness.