Blessed Atanasio Vidaurreta Labra

Biography

Blessed Atanasio Vidaurreta Labra, also known as Blessed Atanasio Vidaurreta Labra, was born on 2 May 1911 in Adiós, Navarra, Spain. He hailed from a humble family of shepherds and from a young age, he felt a strong calling to religious life. Responding to this vocation, Atanasio decided to join the Congregation of Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, also known as the Claretians. He entered the Claretian seminary during his teenage years and made his profession in Vic, Spain on 15 August 1930.

Tragically, Atanasio's pursuit of his vocation coincided with the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War in 1936. During this tumultuous time, the tensions and violence between political factions were particularly intense, often targeting individuals who were associated with the Catholic Church. In this hostile environment, Atanasio faced immense challenges and suffering.

In July 1936, while still in seminary, Atanasio experienced a sudden decline in his health and collapsed due to an unspecified illness. He was subsequently admitted to a hospital for treatment. However, his release on 15 August 1936 marked a turning point in his life as he was immediately handed over to the anti-Catholic authorities and imprisoned. Three days later, on 18 August 1936, Atanasio was executed.

The circumstances surrounding Atanasio's martyrdom were a consequence of his unwavering devotion to his faith. Despite the dangers that surrounded him, Atanasio remained steadfast and displayed great courage in the face of persecution. His martyrdom, alongside other Claretians who were also executed in Barbastro, serves as a testament to his commitment to his religious calling.

After his execution, Atanasio was buried in a mass grave. However, following the end of the Spanish Civil War, his remains were exhumed and identified through the recognition of his cassock. He was then re-interred in the Claretian church located in Barbastro, Huesca, Spain.

In recognition of his martyrdom and the extreme sacrifice he made for his faith, Atanasio Vidaurreta Labra was venerated by Pope John Paul II on 7 March 1992, through the declaration of his martyrdom. Later, on 25 October 1992, Pope John Paul II beatified him, declaring him blessed.

The life and martyrdom of Blessed Atanasio Vidaurreta Labra stand as a powerful example of faith, resilience, and dedication to the Catholic Church, inspiring many to follow his footsteps and deepen their own relationship with God.