World War II Veteran Baptized Shortly Before Turning 100

Treviño discovered that Martin held a deep faith in Christ and the Eucharist: «He expressed a genuine faith in Christ and the teachings of the Catholic Church. He believes in the Eucharist and the importance of Baptism and Confirmation. He said that, although he was not Catholic, he always recited the Act of Contrition.»

(ZENIT News / Arizona, 08.30.2026).- A World War II veteran decided to receive Baptism, Confirmation, and First Communion at the age of 98, following a long journey of personal conversion.

Raymond Martin began his conversion to the faith through his daily life with his wife, Ann Marie, a Catholic, with whom he attended Mass and prayed the Rosary for years. Deacon Jacinto Treviño, a chaplain at the hospice where Ann Marie passed away, formed a strong bond with Raymond, as both had served in the Armed Forces. In December 2025, the two connected over their shared background and spoke about his wife and his faith. Raymond served in Japan and the Philippines during World War II.

«Ray is an incredible person,» Treviño told EWTN News. «We got along well from the start. We talked a lot about work and shared plenty of laughs. One day, he mentioned that he had never been baptized or received any Sacraments, and that he wanted to become Catholic. We began having deeper conversations about the faith.»

Treviño discovered that Martin held a deep faith in Christ and the Eucharist. «He expressed genuine faith in Christ and the teachings of the Catholic Church. He believes in the Eucharist and in the importance of Baptism and Confirmation. Ray said that, even though he wasn’t Catholic, he always prayed the Act of Contrition.»

The pivotal moment came in December 2025, when Martin expressed to Deacon Treviño his desire to be baptized.

Father Edson Elizarraras, pastor of St. Christopher Parish in Marana, Arizona, noted that Martin had survived a stroke, multiple falls, and other health issues, even coming close to death in May following further strokes. He remarked, «Surprisingly, Ray pulled through. It was after that stroke that he clearly expressed his desire to receive the Sacraments of Initiation.»

On July 16, the ceremony took place at the residence where Martin lives, attended by family members, staff, and fellow residents. «In a truly moving gesture at the start of the liturgy,» said Father Edson Elizarraras, «Mr. Raymond asked for help moving closer to the humble yet dignified altar we had prepared. He wanted to hear clearly and see God at work.»

Deeply moved and fully aware of the significance of the moment, Ray received Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist. «As I approached, he began to weep and smile. He knew this was one of the most important days of his long life,» the priest recalled.