Bl. Miguel Pro loved to make people laugh and was serious enough about his faith that he risked his life to serve others. Emmanuel Arenas, SJ, reflects on his life.
Blessed Miguel Pro reminds us that a life well-lived is more important than a life long-lived.
When Miguel Agustín Pro entered the Society of Jesus at the age of 20, Catholics in Mexico were suffering persecution by the Mexican government. Because of this, he had to leave Mexico to continue his Jesuit formation.
Miguel’s jovial disposition and humble witness inspired many. Publicly, he loved to make others laugh and was known to be a beloved catechist. Privately, he spent much time praying before the Blessed Sacrament.
After his ordination, Miguel desired to return to Mexico where persecution continued. Constantly changing his clothing in order to avoid arrest, he went from home to home administering the sacraments, visiting the sick, and feeding the poor. In 1927 Miguel was arrested and was ordered to be killed before a firing squad. In his final moments, Miguel prayed for the last time, and with hands outstretched, spoke his last words, “Viva Cristo Rey!” (Long live Christ the King).
Bl. Miguel Pro, pray for us.
