Lojze Grozde (1923–1943) was a Slovenian student and poet whose deep Catholic faith and tragic death during World War II have made him a symbol of martyrdom in Slovenia. Born on May 27, 1923, in the village of Zgornje Vodale, he faced a challenging childhood as an illegitimate child. After his mother remarried, his stepfather initially kept him away, but recognizing Lojze's academic potential, he allowed him to stay, and an aunt took care of him. With the support of benefactors, Grozde attended the Classical Secondary School in Ljubljana, excelling in his studies and actively participating in the Catholic Action movement and the Marian Congregation.

In January 1943, during the turbulent times of World War II, Grozde was traveling to visit relatives when he was apprehended by Partisan forces. Accused of carrying religious materials, he was tortured and killed on January 1, 1943. His body was discovered months later, showing signs of severe torture, and he became a potent symbol of anti-religious persecution.

The Catholic Church recognized Grozde's unwavering faith and martyrdom, leading to his beatification on June 13, 2010, in Celje, Slovenia. His feast day is celebrated on May 27, and he is venerated as a patron of students, poets, and Catholic Action members.