Blessed Ferran Saperas Aluja

Biography

Blessed Ferran Saperas Aluja, also known as Ferran of Alió, was a devoted member of the Claretians and a revered figure in the Catholic Church. He was born on September 8, 1905, in the town of Alió, located in the province of Tarragona, Spain. From an early age, Ferran demonstrated a strong faith and a desire to serve God, which led him to join the Claretians, a religious congregation founded by Saint Anthony Mary Claret.

Ferran's dedication and commitment to his religious calling were evident when he professed as a member of the Claretians on August 15, 1930. Throughout his religious life, he embraced the Claretian charism of evangelization and preaching the Gospel. As a young member of the congregation, Ferran exhibited a deep compassion for those in need and devoted himself to their spiritual and material welfare.

However, during a tumultuous period in Spain's history, the Spanish Civil War broke out in 1936, marked by intense political and social conflict. Tragically, this conflict would also become a time of persecution for the Catholic Church in Spain. Ferran Saperas Aluja, along with many other Claretian priests and religious, became a victim of this fierce anti-Catholic sentiment.

It was on August 13, 1936, in the town of Tárrega, Province of Lleida, Spain, that Ferran Saperas Aluja met his martyrdom. He was brutally executed for his unwavering commitment to his faith and refused to renounce his religious ideals. Ferran's martyrdom exemplifies his steadfast dedication to his beliefs and his willingness to sacrifice his life for the Church.

After years of recognition and evaluation of his life and death within the Catholic Church, Pope Francis declared Ferran Saperas Aluja a martyr on December 21, 2016. This decree marked a significant step towards his beatification, a process that culminated on October 21, 2017, when Pope Francis officially elevated him to the rank of Blessed.

The beatification recognition took place in the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. The ceremony was presided over by Cardinal Angelo Amato, representing the Holy See. The beatification of Blessed Ferran Saperas Aluja served as a testament to his sanctity and his status as a model of faith, fortitude, and selflessness.

Blessed Ferran Saperas Aluja's feast days are celebrated on August 13th, the day of his martyrdom, and February 1st, along with the 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs who suffered during the same period of persecution. His life and martyrdom continue to inspire Catholics around the world, reminding them of the courage and dedication required to follow Christ faithfully, even in the face of adversity.