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Feast Day: August 17
Death: August 17, 1627
Blessed Bartolomé Díaz Laurel, also known as Bartolomé Díaz de la Cruz, was a Catholic missionary and member of the Franciscan Friars Minor (Observants). Born in 1599 in "El Pozo de la Nación," Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico, he dedicated his life to spreading the Catholic faith and serving humanity.
Bartolomé Díaz Laurel was a close friend and co-worker of Blessed Francisco of Saint Mary, another Franciscan friar who shared his missionary zeal. Together, they undertook various missions throughout their lives, their most significant contributions being in the Philippines and Japan.
In 1609, Bartolomé Díaz Laurel embarked on a mission to Manila, Philippines, where he worked tirelessly to convert the local population to Christianity. His dedication as a missionary attracted the attention of his superiors, who recognized his potential and appointed him to another significant mission in Japan in 1622.
Arriving in Japan, Bartolomé Díaz Laurel continued his efforts to spread the Gospel. He served as a physician, providing medical assistance to the people while also carrying out catechetical work. His compassionate nature and selfless service endeared him to the Japanese communities he served, and he became known for his unwavering faith and dedication to the people's spiritual and physical well-being.
However, the Tokugawa Shogunate, which was implementing strict isolationist policies during that time, viewed the presence of foreign missionaries as a threat to their authority. The authorities intensified their persecution of Christians, hoping to eradicate the Catholic faith from Japan.
In Nagasaki, on August 17, 1627, Bartolomé Díaz Laurel became a martyr for his faith. Alongside many other Christians, he was arrested and subjected to brutal torture, aimed at renouncing their beliefs. Despite the physical pain and brutality inflicted upon him, he remained resolute in his faith until his execution.
Bartolomé Díaz Laurel's unwavering commitment to the Catholic faith and his willingness to sacrifice his life for the sake of the Gospel made him an exemplary figure of martyrdom. His martyrdom became a symbol of hope and inspiration for the faithful, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their beliefs.
Recognizing his martyrdom, Pope Pius IX declared Bartolomé Díaz Laurel venerable on February 26, 1866, acknowledging his heroic virtues and the ultimate sacrifice he made for his faith. On May 7, 1867, Pope Pius IX beatified him, granting him the title of Blessed Bartolomé Díaz Laurel.
Today, Blessed Bartolomé Díaz Laurel is remembered and honored on various feast days. His primary feast day is celebrated on August 17, commemorating his martyrdom. Additionally, he is honored on September 10 as one of the 205 Martyrs of Japan, and on May 22 as one of the Franciscan Martyrs of Japan.
Blessed Bartolomé Díaz Laurel's life serves as an inspiration for Catholics worldwide, reminding them of the unwavering faith and dedication exhibited by those who sacrificed their lives for the sake of spreading the Gospel. His legacy continues to be celebrated, serving as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the call to serve others selflessly.