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Feast Day: September 24
Birth: January 27, 1888
Death: September 1, 24
Blessed Encarnación Gil Valls, born on 27 January 1888 in Ontinyent, Valencia, Spain, was a devout laywoman in the Archdiocese of Valencia. From an early age, she had a strong connection with her faith, as she was baptized on the day of her birth, confirmed at the age of 5, and received her first Holy Communion at 11, all in her parish church of Santa Maria.
Encarnación initially considered entering religious life but soon discovered her true calling was to support and assist her brother, who happened to be a parish priest. She dedicated herself to helping him in his ministry, providing companionship, and offering her assistance wherever it was needed. In addition, she taught elementary school, imparting knowledge and sharing her faith with the children under her care.
A devout member of Catholic Action, Encarnación also became part of the Daughters of Mary, a group involved in various apostolic works. As a catechist, she played a crucial role in instructing others in the Catholic faith and nurturing their spiritual growth. One of her greatest devotions was Eucharistic adoration, spending long hours in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament.
Tragically, during the turbulent times of the Spanish Civil War, Encarnación faced persecution for her faith. On the night of 24 September 1936, she was arrested and taken to the port of L‚ÄôOllería in Valencia, where she was martyred, being shot for her unwavering commitment to Christ and the Church. Her courageous witness to the faith, even in the face of danger, has made her an inspiring model of fidelity and love for God.
Encarnación Gil Valls was formally recognized for her martyrdom on 18 December 2000 by Pope John Paul II, who issued a decree of martyrdom venerating her. Subsequently, on 11 March 2001, Pope John Paul II beatified her, acknowledging her as a blessed in the Catholic Church.
Blessed Encarnación Gil Valls, whose feast day is celebrated on 24 September, remains an example of faithfulness, devotion, and sacrifice for all believers. Her dedication to her brother, her academic pursuits, her involvement in Catholic Action and the Daughters of Mary, and her profound love for the Eucharist all contributed to her sanctity, and she serves as an inspiration to all those seeking to live a life of holiness.