A Life of Faith & Liturgical Renewal
Memorial: July 13th
This month I share a holy role-model who most of the Laity can sink their teeth into. His life perfectly represents the concept of holiness in daily ordinary circumstances that we can all aspire to.
+ Early Life and Spiritual Formation +
Born Carlos Manuel Cecilio Rodríguez Santiago on November 22, 1918, in Caguas, Puerto Rico, he was the second of five children in a deeply pious family who simply called him Charlie. His parents, Manuel and Herminia Rodríguez, instilled in him a strong faith from an early age. He was baptized in the Sweet Name of Jesus Church on May 4, 1919, a parish that would remain prominent to his spiritual life.
Charlie’s childhood was marked by both joy and hardship. In 1925, a devastating fire destroyed his family’s home and business, forcing them to live with his maternal grandparents. In addition, he had a traumatic encounter with a vicious dog that resulted in him developing a serious digestive disorder. Despite these challenges, he remained deeply committed to his faith, which steadily evolved into a profound love for the Eucharist and the Liturgy. His grandmother, Alejandrina Esterás, played a significant role in shaping his spiritual outlook, teaching him the importance of prayer and devotion.
+ Education and Early Challenges +
Young Charlie attended Colegio Católico Notre Dame, where he excelled academically, particularly in religious studies. However, his aspirations to become a priest were hindered by ulcerative colitis, which caused him great suffering throughout his life. Despite his illness, he remained dedicated to his studies and faith, eventually transferring to Gautier Benítez High School and later the Academy of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in San Juan.
His health struggles forced him to leave formal education before completing his degree, but he continued his intellectual pursuits independently. He worked as an office clerk while dedicating his free time to Catholic catechesis and liturgical education. His passion for the liturgical movement led him to translate and publish articles on the subject, promoting a deeper understanding of the Church’s traditions among Puerto Rican Catholics.
Bl. Carlos Manuel as a young student
(front row-center).
+ Apostolate and Liturgical Renewal +
Charlie became a key figure in the liturgical renewal movement, advocating for greater participation in the Eucharist and the Paschal Mystery. He founded Liturgy and Christian Culture, a publication dedicated to educating Catholics about the richness of the liturgy. His work extended beyond writing - he organized discussion groups, retreats, youth faith events, and catechetical programs, inspiring many to deepen their personal relationship with God.
Enrolling at the University of Puerto Rico in 1946, Charlie continued his personal mission of liturgical education. He established the Círculo de Cultura Cristiana, a group dedicated to studying and promoting Catholic teachings. His influence grew, and he became a respected mentor to students and clergy alike.
Despite his illness, the Blessed remained joyful and dedicated to his mission. He was known for his humility, kindness, and unwavering faith, qualities that endeared him to those around him. His motto, “We live for that night,” referred to the Easter Vigil, emphasizing the centrality of Christ’s resurrection in Christian life.
Charlie in evangelical action.
+ Final Years and Glorification +
Later diagnosed with colon cancer, Charlie’s health deteriorated in the early 1960s, but he continued his work until his passing on July 13, 1963; he was only 44-years-old. His legacy of liturgical renewal and catechetical education left a lasting impact on in the Puerto Rico Catholic community and beyond.
Recognizing his sanctity, Pope John Paul II Beatified Carlos Manuel Rodriguez in April 2001, making him the first Puerto Rican and first Caribbean-born layperson to be beatified. His feast day is celebrated on July 13, and he is commemorated as a patron of liturgical renewal and catechists.
Bl. Carlos Manuel’s life stands as a testament to faith, perseverance, and dedication to the Church’s liturgical traditions. His work continues to inspire those seeking a deeper understanding of the Eucharist and the Paschal Mystery. Let us pray for his speed Canonization.
Bl. Carlos Manuel Rodriguez,
pray for us.
