Today, August 4, we celebrate the feast day of
Blessed Ceferino Giménez Malla (1981-1936), Martyr, Dominican tertiary, and first Gypsy to be beatified by the Church. In his beatification homily, Pope John Paul II proclaimed, "His life shows how Christ is present in the various peoples and races, and that all are called to holiness which is attained by keeping his commandments and remaining in his love
Ceferino Giménez Malla was born into a gypsy family of the Romani (a nomadic people who moved from place to place). Born at Benevent de Lérida, his parents practiced Catholicism and had him baptized at Fraga. The family moved consistently throughout his childhood, generally supporting themselves through selling baskets they weaved. While he never received formal education, and was possibly illiterate, Ceferino’s intelligence, wisdom, and sound judgment was obvious to all he encountered. He was valued by his community as a peacemaker and wise arbiter, settling disputes and disagreements. He also demonstrated a consistent faith, practicing charitable works, modeling the love and patience of Christ.
In accordance with tradition, Ceferino married at a young age, and together with his wife continued the nomadic life. He worked as a horse trader, and was recognized by all for his honesty and fair practices. The couple never had children, but took in a niece and assumed responsibility for raising her. Ceferino attended Mass every day, and received the Holy Eucharist as frequently as possible. On many days, Ceferino would gather the local children he encountered—gypsy and non-gypsy together—and teach them the Bible through stories and basic prayers.
Ceferino’s wife died in 1922, and his niece married, leaving him in solitude. At this time, Ceferino grew in his contemplation and love of the Lord, and entered the Franciscan Order as a tertiary. He spent most evenings in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and eventually became a member of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul.
When the Spanish Civil War broke out, there was much anti-Catholic sentiment, and many were being persecuted. Ceferino defended a priest who was being taken to prison, and was arrested and imprisoned alongside him. While in prison, Ceferino clung to his Rosary, praying constantly. Offered freedom if he would renounce his faith, he declined and was eventually taken to a cemetery and executed by firing squad. Even in death, he maintained his prayer, holding his Rosary aloft and proclaiming,
“Viva Cristo Rey!” (“Long live Christ the King!”). His body was buried in a common, unmarked grave and never recovered.
O God our Father, great and good,
through the light and power of your Spirit
the gypsy Ceferino,
the proto-martyr of his people,
was united to the sufferings of Jesus.
We thank you that you have thus in your love
honored all the traveling people of the world.
We pray that you will raise up holy missionaries
among these people and in the whole Church.
Help us to follow the example of this true believer
who loved you intensely and was a good Samaritan to others.
You strengthened him through the Eucharist
and through Mary's intercession;
in the same way lead us to be true Christians,
ready to walk the way of the cross
in the hope of sharing in your glory forever.
Amen.
Year 2: Day 216 of 365
Prayer Intentions: Acceptance of the diversity of God’s creation within the Church.
Requested Intentions: For a family’s intentions (T); Successful examination results (B); Healing of a friend with cancer, for all those who help others (B); Healing and love (L); Grace and healing (V); Healing of a heart, consecration of a marriage (M); Health of a family, intentions of apostolate (H); For repentance (J); For a family in trouble (R); Healing, successful relationships for son, financial success (J); Success of a company (L); For a religious society (J); Healing of a husband, strength as a faithful caregiver (D); Healing of a son (T); Financial security, Healing and guidance (M); Healing of a heart and relationship (V); Employment for daughter (J); For a marriage that glorifies the Lord (K); Resolution of family situation, parents’ health (A); Positive results (C); For a son’s employment, faith, and relationships (S); Restored family relationships (A); Healthy conception and delivery of children (J); For a girlfriend’s recovery from a debilitating mental illness (J); For a daughter’s successful examination results (A); Occupational success, health and safety of family (S).
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