In a momentous decision, Pope Francis has signed a decree making José Gregorio Hernández, the beloved Venezuelan physician known as the “doctor of the poor,” the country’s first saint. The announcement, made on Tuesday, marks a historic milestone for Venezuela and its Catholic community, as they celebrate the elevation of one of their most revered figures to sainthood.
A Momentous Step for Venezuela
José Gregorio Hernández, who passed away in 1919, was known for his selfless dedication to serving the poor and alleviating human suffering throughout his life. While the canonization ceremony will take place at a later date, Pope Francis has affirmed the decision to recognize Hernández’s heroic virtues.
The Archdiocese of Caracas issued a statement calling the decision a long-awaited recognition of Hernández’s life, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to hope, love, and service to those in need. The statement reflected the profound impact Hernández had on his community, with his work and spirit still alive today through his extensive universal devotion.
Hernández’s Path to Sainthood
José Gregorio Hernández’s journey to sainthood has been a long one, with his life being recognized for its exemplary Christian values. In 1986, the Vatican declared him “venerable,” meaning that his life demonstrated a deep and consistent commitment to Christian faith. To achieve sainthood, a series of miracles must be attributed to the individual, and Hernández’s cause was significantly advanced after the church confirmed a miracle in 2017. A young girl, who had been shot in the head, was reportedly cured after prayers invoking Hernández’s name.
In April 2021, Hernández was beatified, with the miracle playing a pivotal role in advancing his canonization process. This official declaration paved the way for Pope Francis to sign the decree that ultimately recognized him as Venezuela’s first saint.
The Life of José Gregorio Hernández
Born on October 26, 1864, in the small town of Isnotu, Venezuela, Hernández was driven by a deep commitment to medicine and service. He graduated as a doctor in 1888 from Caracas, the nation’s capital, and immediately became passionate about using science to improve the lives of the country’s impoverished people. Hernández founded two research institutions and contributed to the education of medical students at the Central University of Venezuela.
Though Hernández traveled to Europe for further studies and spiritual formation, his fragile health led him to return to Venezuela. There, he focused on his medical work and later became a Catholic monk.
Tragic Death and Legacy
On June 29, 1919, José Gregorio Hernández tragically lost his life after being struck by a car while crossing the street. He had just picked up medicine for a woman in need. He died from injuries sustained when his head struck the sidewalk, and his funeral was attended by an estimated 20,000 people. The massive turnout, about a quarter of Caracas’ population at the time, showcased the profound respect and admiration the Venezuelan people had for him.
Global Recognition and Petition for Sainthood
The campaign for Hernández’s sainthood began gaining momentum in the 1990s, especially after Pope John Paul II visited Venezuela in 1996. During the visit, the Vatican received a petition signed by 5 million Venezuelans, a staggering one in four citizens, asking for Hernández’s canonization.
José Gregorio Hernández’s journey from a selfless doctor to a revered saint is a powerful testament to his lifelong devotion to humanity and faith. As Venezuela’s first saint, Hernández’s story inspires countless individuals, especially in a country that continues to struggle with social and economic challenges. The Vatican’s decision to recognize him is not only a moment of personal triumph for the Venezuelan people but also a reminder of the power of selflessness and service to others.
