Saint José: Boy Cristero Martyr

by Kevin McKenzie

This new title in the acclaimed Vision Books lives of the saints series for youth 9-15 yrs. brings to life the inspirational story of St. José Sánchez del Río, a 14 yr. old boy in Mexico who died a martyr for the Catholic faith during the Cristero War in the 1920s. Meet young José and his friend Trino as the war breaks out in their hometown of Sahuayo. Follow José through his own struggles as the violence escalates, up to his joining the Cristero army in 1927 to fight for freedom of religion. Captured by government forces, José refused to deny his faith in exchange for his freedom. Tortured and forced to march to his grave, he cried out, "Viva Cristo Rey!" (Long live Christ the King) José died as he had lived, a hero. Inspired by this young martyr to become a priest himself, Father McKenzie spent ten years researching and writing José's story. The result is a riveting tale of a young man's bravery and passion for God. Drawing on all existing sources, including never-before-seen documents from the Vatican and the Mexican Government, Saint José plunges the young reader into a country at war, not over territory, but over the right to worship God freely. Canonized in 2016 by Pope Francis, St. José is one of the newest and youngest saints of the Catholic Church, and an inspiration to people from all walks of life. He shows us that our faith is worth fighting and dying for. His example is a powerful catalyst for young people today, so many of whom are tempted to never commit themselves to any serious calling in life.

Genres: Religion, Childrens, Catholic, Biography

160 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 20, 2019

Reviews

[Steven R. McEvoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked this book up to read because my interest in this saint was sparked by the novel Nicholas Gilroy: Viva Christo Rey, written by Father Stephen Gemme and Deacon George O’Connor. After a brief encounter with stories about Saint Jose in that story I had to read more about the saint. And this book did not disappoint. I have picked up a few other books from the Vision Books series on the lives of saints. But have not got around to reading them yet. But after how much I benefited from reading this story, they have jumped way up in my to be read list. But back to this book about Saint Jose.

I need to state first that this is a new and revised version of a book originally published as Blessed Jose: Boy Cristero Martyr. Doing a side by side comparison the books are very similar. A few chapter titles are changed, and some chapters in the original are combined as sections in the current edition. But there are enough differences that you could read both versions, because of changes of wording. But most readers will settle for reading one or the other.

I can understand while there is such devotion to this saint in Mexico, and among those of Mexican heritage. I do not know how any Catholic could read this story and not be inspired. Or be encouraged in the small trials and issues they experience in their lives. The author shares how he experienced the story of Saint Jose in the sixth grade. That story by a visiting teacher he states:

“he told us the story of a Mexican boy who was martyred for his faith and never stopped shouting, “Long live Christ the King!” When I heard about this fourteen-year-old boy, explosions went off in my twelve-year-old heart. If José could give his life for God, then I could do something for God too.”

Father McKenzie also states:

“When I looked for more about José, I couldn’t find a single book about him in English. That was 1993. In 2004, I decided it was time for me to put his story in writing. This book is the result of ten years of research, during which time I obtained copies of what I believe to be every historical document ever written about José.”

This volume is that book. It is the story of José Luis Sánchez del Río who at the age of 14 died because of his love for God, and for his faithful devotion the Catholic church. He died a martyr because he would not renounce his faith. He was condemned by his own god father, who was a politician, and mayor and was trying to size power. He died even though his father sold everything he had to ransom his life. It is the story of incredible devotion and bravery. And the story reads like an adventure novel, a case of truth being even better than fiction.

An excellent read. If you only have a passing knowledge of this saint, I strongly encourage you to read this book.

Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More.

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2019 Catholic Reading Plan!

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Father McKenzie has created an exciting, engaging, and realistic portrait of the Mexican teen Jose Sanchez del Rio's piety and courage. The story follows Jose and his family as he leaves home with his friend Trino to join the Cristeros and ultimately to give his life in defense of his faith.

Nothing about his martyrdom is whitewashed, yet the story is retold in a manner that is appropriate for young readers, its focus being on Saint Jose's bravery rather than his captors' brutality. An excellent introduction into Mexican history, Church history, and sainthood.

[Cassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first heard of St. José, martyr, in the movie “For Greater Glory.” I was so moved by this brave and faithful boy. This children’s book is so wonderfully written I recommend it for all ages. Viva Cristo Rey!

[Josue · Rating 5 out of 5]

great inspiration for kids

[Matt The Best · Rating 5 out of 5]

Viva Christo Rey!!!!!