Blessed Bartolomé Gelabert Pericás

Biography

Blessed Bartolomé Gelabert Pericás, also known as Bartolomé Gelabert, was a lay brother in the Vincentian Congregation of the Mission during the early 20th century. He was born on May 4, 1872, in Consey, a small town in Mallorca, Spain.

Bartolomé Gelabert dedicated his life to serving others and living out his faith. He joined the Vincentian Congregation of the Mission, also known as the Vincentians, a religious community founded by St. Vincent de Paul. As a lay brother, he played a significant role in the mission work of the congregation, supporting the priests in their ministries and assisting in various charitable activities.

During the turbulent period of the Spanish Civil War, religious persecution was rampant. Bartolomé Gelabert remained steadfast in his faith and commitment to his vocation. Sadly, on November 27, 1936, he was martyred in Canillas, a neighborhood in Madrid, Spain. He was a victim of the violent anti-Catholic sentiment that prevailed during the war.

Following his death, the holiness of Bartolomé Gelabert's life and his martyrdom were recognized. On March 23, 2017, Pope Francis declared his martyrdom, signifying that he had died for his faith. Then, on November 11, 2017, Pope Francis beatified Bartolomé Gelabert Pericás in a ceremony held at the Palacio Vistalegre Arena in Carabanchel, Madrid. The beatification was presided over by Cardinal Angelo Amato and Cardinal Carlos Osoro Sierra of Madrid.

Blessed Bartolomé Gelabert Pericás, recognized for his selfless dedication and the ultimate sacrifice he made for his faith, is venerated as a martyr by the Catholic Church. His feast day is celebrated on November 27 each year, commemorating the day of his martyrdom. This feast day serves as an opportunity for the faithful to honor his life, remember his example of faithfulness, and seek his intercession.