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Feast Day: October 13
Birth: February 17, 1915
Death: October 13, 1936
Blessed √Ängel Presta Batllé, also known as Brother √Ängel Maria, was a devout member of the Carmelites of the Ancient Observance. He was born on 17 February 1915 in the town of Olot, located in Girona, Spain. Growing up, √Ängel demonstrated a deep commitment to his faith and a strong desire to dedicate his life to serving God.
At a young age, Àngel felt called to the religious life and joined the Carmelites of the Ancient Observance, known for their dedication to contemplative prayer and strict adherence to traditional Carmelite spirituality. As a Carmelite, he embraced a life of simplicity, poverty, and prayer, following the footsteps of the great Carmelite saints who came before him.
During the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, religious persecution was rampant, and countless faithful Catholics were martyred for their beliefs. Tragically, Brother Àngel Maria became a victim of this persecution. He was martyred on 13 October 1936 in Barcelona, Spain, at the young age of 21.
Despite his untimely death, the faithful witness and courage displayed by Brother Àngel Maria in the face of persecution were not forgotten. Recognizing his extraordinary life, Pope Benedict XVI venerated him on 26 June 2006 by proclaiming a decree of martyrdom. It was a testament to Brother Àngel Maria's dedication to his faith and his unwavering commitment to Christ, even in the face of great adversity.
Subsequently, on 28 October 2007, Pope Benedict XVI beatified Brother √Ängel Presta Batllé, officially recognizing him as Blessed. This beatification served as an inspiration to Catholics around the world, reminding them of the heroic virtues and sacrifices made by many during the Spanish Civil War.
Blessed √Ängel Presta Batllé's life continues to be celebrated and revered. His feast day is commemorated on 13 October each year, allowing the faithful to honor his memory and seek his intercession. As a Carmelite martyr, his example serves as a reminder to remain steadfast in the faith, even in the face of adversity, and to embrace a life of prayer, simplicity, and service to others.