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Feast Day: July 13
Birth: March 18, 1753
Death: July 13, 1794
Blessed Barthélemy Jarrige De La Morelie De Biars, born on 18 March 1753 in Moutier, Haute-Vienne, France, was a devoted priest of the diocese of Limoges. He dedicated his life to serving the Catholic Church and its faithful during tumultuous times in France.
During the anti-Catholic persecutions of the French Revolution, Blessed Barthélemy found himself imprisoned on a ship in the harbor of Rochefort, France. He, along with many other faithful servants of God, was left to die aboard the prison ship Deux-Associés. These prison ships, known as "hulks," were notorious for their inhumane conditions and served as a source of great suffering for the captured clergy.
Blessed Barthélemy's unwavering faith and commitment to his vocation were evident as he endured the hardships of imprisonment. Despite the harshness of his circumstances, he remained steadfast in his devotion to God and continued to provide solace and guidance to his fellow prisoners. His unwavering faith and ability to offer hope in such dire circumstances made him a source of inspiration for his companions.
On 13 July 1794, at the young age of 41, Blessed Barthélemy Jarrige De La Morelie De Biars ultimately met his martyrdom aboard the prison ship. He was one of the Martyrs of the Hulks of Rochefort, a group of clergy who sacrificed their lives for their faith during the French Revolution. Their collective martyrdom was a powerful testament to their dedication to the Catholic Church and their refusal to renounce their beliefs.
Recognizing the heroic virtues and witness of Blessed Barthélemy, Pope John Paul II declared him venerable on 2 July 1994, through a decree of martyrdom. This acknowledgment of his sanctity further emphasized the significance of his sacrificial life and the example he set for future generations. On 1 October 1995, Pope John Paul II beatified him, elevating him to the status of "Blessed," a title bestowed upon individuals who have been recognized for their holiness and closeness to God.
His feast day is celebrated on 13 July, the day of his martyrdom. Today, the life and sacrifice of Blessed Barthélemy Jarrige De La Morelie De Biars continue to inspire Catholics around the world, reminding them of the strength and resilience of their faith, even in the face of adversity.