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Feast Day: July 24
Birth: February 27, 1894
Death: July 24, 1936
Blessed Antoni Capdevilla Balsells, also known as Antoni Capdevilla, was a Claretian brother who became a martyr during the Spanish Civil War. He was born on 27th February 1894 in L’Espluga Calba, a town located in Lleida, Spain.
Antoni Capdevilla devoted his life to his faith and joined the Claretian religious congregation. The Claretians, officially known as the Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, follow the spirituality and mission of St. Anthony Mary Claret, their founder. Antoni embraced this vocation wholeheartedly and lived out his religious calling with devotion and dedication.
During the turbulent period of the Spanish Civil War, religious persecution targeted the Catholic Church and those who dedicated their lives to serving it. Antoni Capdevilla found himself caught up in this violent conflict and ultimately paid the ultimate price for his faith.
On 24th July 1936, Antoni Capdevilla was martyred in the small town of Vimbodí, located in Tarragona, Spain. His steadfast commitment to his religious beliefs and his refusal to renounce his faith in the face of persecution led to his tragic death.
Despite the hardships and risks associated with his religious calling in this tumultuous period, Antoni Capdevilla's unwavering faith and willingness to sacrifice his life for his beliefs were recognized by the Catholic Church. Pope Benedict XVI, on 28th June 2012, decreed his martyrdom, acknowledging his dedication to the faith even in the face of martyrdom.
Blessed Antoni Capdevilla Balsells was officially beatified on 13th October 2013 by Pope Benedict XVI. His beatification serves as a testament to his heroic virtue and his status as a role model for Catholics around the world.
The feast day of Blessed Antoni Capdevilla Balsells is celebrated on 24th July each year, commemorating the day of his martyrdom. On this day, Catholics honor his memory and seek his intercession, asking for courage and strength in their own spiritual journeys.
Blessed Antoni Capdevilla Balsells, through his life and martyrdom, continues to inspire and encourage believers to remain steadfast in their faith, even in the face of adversity. His story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by many during the Spanish Civil War and the enduring power of faith in the lives of the faithful.