Blessed Alexandre Planas Saurí

Biography

Blessed Alexandre Planas Saurí, also known as Blessed Alexander Planas Saurí, was a skilled sculptor, a deaf layman, and a faithful follower of Christ in the archdiocese of Barcelona, Spain. He was born on October 31, 1878, in the city of Mataró, located in the region of Barcelona.

Throughout his life, Blessed Alexandre demonstrated a deep devotion to his faith and became a member of the Salesian Cooperators, a lay organization associated with the Salesian Order founded by St. John Bosco. He considered the Salesian Cooperators his family and actively participated in their work. Alexandre's artistic talent as a sculptor allowed him to contribute to the beauty of churches and religious spaces, where he would create magnificent works of art that inspired many.

Tragically, during the Spanish Civil War, a period marked by intense conflict and religious persecution, Blessed Alexandre Planas Saurí became a martyr for his faith. On November 19, 1936, he was shot in Garraf, a region in Barcelona, where he met a cruel and untimely death.

Blessed Alexandre's feast day is celebrated on November 19, the day of his martyrdom. Additionally, he is also honored on September 22, as one of the Martyred Salesians of Valencia, Catalunya, and Aragón, commemorating the martyrdom of fellow Salesians during the same period.

The heroic virtues and sacrifice of Blessed Alexandre Planas Saurí were recognized by the Catholic Church. On December 20, 1999, Pope John Paul II officially declared him venerable, acknowledging his exemplary life and the virtues he exhibited. Later, on March 11, 2001, Pope John Paul II beatified him, bestowing upon him the title of Blessed.

Although additional information about Blessed Alexandre is not provided in the given details, his life and testimony remain an inspiration for the faithful. May the example of Blessed Alexandre Planas Saurí remind us of the importance of faith, dedication, and artistic expression in the service of God and His Church.