Blessed Diégo Josef Of Cádiz

Biography

Blessed Diégo Josef of Cádiz, also known as the Apostle of Our Lady, the Mother of the Good Shepherd and the Apostle of the Blessed Trinity, was born as Francisco José López-Caamaño García-Pérez on 30 March 1747 in Cádiz, Seville, Spain. He joined the Capuchin Order in Seville in 1759, dedicating his life to the service of God and the Church.

As a missionary, Blessed Diégo Josef tirelessly traveled throughout Spain, focusing his efforts primarily in the region of Andalusia. He became renowned for his dedication to the sacrament of Reconciliation, spending most of his pastoral time in the confessional, offering spiritual guidance and healing to countless individuals seeking God's forgiveness.

Blessed Diégo Josef was deeply devoted to the Most Holy Trinity and was a member of the Confraternity of the Most Holy Trinity. Through his profound faith and charismatic preaching, he endeavored to inspire others to develop a closer relationship with the triune God.

Blessed Diégo Josef passed away on 24 March 1801 in Ronda, Malaga, Spain, due to natural causes. He was laid to rest in the sanctuary of Our Lady of Peace church in Ronda, Spain, where his tomb became a place of pilgrimage for those seeking his intercession and spiritual guidance.

Recognizing his exemplary life of virtue and holiness, Pope Leo XIII declared the heroic virtues of Blessed Diégo Josef on 10 February 1884, allowing him to be venerated by the faithful. Later, on 22 April 1894, Pope Leo XIII beatified him, acknowledging his sanctity and elevating him to the status of "Blessed."

Blessed Diégo Josef of Cádiz, known for his deep piety, dedication to the sacraments, and devotion to the Blessed Trinity and Our Lady, continues to inspire and guide the faithful. His feast days are celebrated on 24 March and 22 May on some calendars, while some also commemorate him on 5 January. His life serves as an example for all Christians, encouraging them to seek holiness and follow Christ with unwavering faith.