David Roldán Lara

David Roldán Lara (2 March 1902 – 15 August 1926) was a Mexican layman who was killed during the Cristero War. A pro-Catholic activist during the anticlerical period under President Plutarco Elías Calles, he was captured by government forces, and was executed for refusing to renounce his position. Roldán was canonized by Pope John Paul II on 21 May 2000 as one of 25 Martyrs of the Cristero War.

Biography

Early life and education David Roldán Lara was born on 2 March 1902

in Chalchihuites, Zacatecas, Mexico. He was baptized later that month at the local parish church. He attended Catholic schools and was an altar boy.

He entered the seminary of the Archdiocese of Durango in Durango City, but dropped out to support his struggling family.

Adulthood and religious activism After leaving the seminary, Roldán became engaged,