The Courageous Faith of a 14 Year Old: Saint José Luis Sánchez del Río

Saint José Luis Sánchez del Río, also known as Saint Joselito, was a Mexican Catholic martyr who is considered a symbol of youth and bravery. He is the patron saint of youth, specifically of Mexican youth, and his life story continues to inspire Catholics around the world.

José Luis Sánchez del Río was born on March 28th, 1913, in Sahuayo, Michoacán, Mexico. He was the youngest of four children and was raised in a devout Catholic family. When the Cristero War broke out in Mexico in 1926, José Luis was only 13 years old. The war was fought between the Mexican government and Catholics who were fighting for their religious freedom.

José Luis was inspired by the bravery of the Cristeros and joined the fight. He was only a teenager, but he quickly became a leader among the rebels. He was known for his courage, his unwavering faith, and his willingness to die for his beliefs.

In 1928, José Luis was captured by government soldiers. Despite being brutally tortured, he refused to renounce his faith. He was then forced to march through the streets to the cemetery where he would be executed. Along the way, he continued to pray and sing hymns. When he arrived at the cemetery, he was given one last chance to renounce his faith, but he refused. He shouted "¡Viva Cristo Rey!" ("Long live Christ the King!") and was then shot to death. He was only 14 years old. 

His death was seen as a largely political venture on the part of government officials in their attempt to stamp out dissent and crush religious freedom in the area. He was dubbed "Joselito."

Saint José Luis Sánchez del Río was canonized as a saint by Pope Francis on October 16th, 2016. His feast day is celebrated on February 10th. In Mexico, his home country, he is remembered as a hero who stood up for his faith and his country. He is also considered a symbol of hope for young people, who look up to him as an example of courage and devotion.

When the body of José Luis was exhumed in 1934 it was found to be incorrupt. This was seen as a sign of his holiness. His body was then placed in a glass coffin and put on display in his hometown of Sahuayo, where it can still be seen today.

His story was the inspiration for the 2012 Mexican film "For Greater Glory," which tells the story of the Cristero War. José Luis was portrayed in the film by the young actor Mauricio Kuri, who was praised for his performance.

Saint José Luis Sánchez del Río was a brave and devout Catholic who gave his life for his faith at 14 years old. He is a symbol of youth and courage, and his story continues to inspire Catholics around the world.