Ezekiel (1848-1906) was an Augustinian Recollect known for his simple and open spirit. He was deeply devoted to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. He ministered for many years in foreign lands. He strongly defended the rights of the Church.
He was born in Alfaro, Logrono, Spain, April 9, 1848. His family was poor in material goods but committed in faith. Ezekiel professed his vows as an Augustinian Recollect in 1865. He was ordained a priest in Manila, Philippines in 1871.
During the next 15 years, he worked at bringing the Gospel of Jesus to the people of the Philippines. He was called back to Spain in 1885. There he served as Rector of the College and Novitiate of Monteagudo.
He then went to Colombia in 1888, where he devoted himself to missionary activity. He also brought renewal to the Augustinian Recollect communities in the region where he was living and working.
Ezekiel was in 1894 named the first Vicar Apostolic of Casanare, and ordained bishop of Pasto, where he remained until 1906. During this time there was war in Colombia. Ezekiel showed himself a voice of strength for his people.
In 1906 a diagnosis of cancer caused him to reluctantly return to Spain for treatment.
There he died August 19, 1906. He was beatified by Pope Paul VI in 1975 and canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1992.
