The Cry of "Viva Cristo Rey!": A Saint Jose Sanchez del Rio Biography

24 Apr 2024

Sahuayo, Mexico: Tomb of St. Jose Sanchez del Rio in Saint James Church

The Mexican Revolution, a maelstrom of ideologies and violence, often conjures images of Pancho Villa’s daring raids or Zapata’s fight for agrarian reform. Yet, within this tumult lies a story of unwavering faith and youthful courage: the life of José Sánchez del Río, a teenage boy who became a symbol of Catholic resistance against religious persecution. His story, though tragic, resonates with a potent message of faith, sacrifice, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

Born into a devout Catholic family in 1913, José's early life was steeped in the tenets of his faith. However, the winds of change that swept Mexico in the early 20th century soon cast a long shadow over his life. The Cristero War, a violent uprising against anti-clerical laws, erupted, pitting the faithful against the government's attempts to suppress religious expression. It was in this crucible of conflict that José's unwavering faith would be tested.

Initially hesitant to allow their young son to join the Cristeros, José’s parents eventually relented, moved by his unwavering conviction. His fervor, exemplified by his constant refrain, "Viva Cristo Rey!" (Long live Christ the King!), quickly made him a beacon of inspiration for his fellow Cristeros. Despite his tender age, José demonstrated remarkable courage and piety, embodying the very essence of faith in action.

His story, however, takes a tragic turn. Captured by government forces, José was given an unthinkable choice: renounce his faith or face death. Despite being subjected to torture and promised freedom, José’s faith remained unshaken. He refused to denounce Christ, his spirit unbroken even in the face of unimaginable cruelty.

On February 10, 1928, at the tender age of 14, José Sánchez del Río was martyred, his final cry of "Viva Cristo Rey!" echoing in the town square. His death, a chilling testament to religious persecution, shook the Cristero movement and served as a stark reminder of the human cost of intolerance. Yet, from this tragedy, a legacy of faith and courage emerged. José's story transcended the battlefields, becoming a symbol of unwavering faith for Catholics worldwide.

In 2005, José Sánchez del Río was beatified by Pope Benedict XVI, acknowledging his martyrdom and holding him up as an example of faith for young people. His story, captured in books and film, continues to inspire individuals across the globe, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, faith and courage can shine brightly. José's life serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the unwavering power of faith, offering a timeless message of hope and resilience.

His story invites us to reflect on our own convictions and to find courage in the face of adversity. It reminds us that our beliefs are worth defending and that even the smallest among us can leave a lasting impact through unwavering faith and courage. While José's life was tragically cut short, his legacy lives on, a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring power of faith, even in the face of death.