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Feast Day: September 19
Birth: December 3, 1890
Death: September 19, 1936
Blessed Francisca Cualladó Baixauli was a remarkable lay woman who lived in the archdiocese of Valencia, Spain. She was born on 3rd December 1890 in Valencia and was baptized just two days later. Unfortunately, Francisca's father died when she was very young, and she had to shoulder the responsibility of caring for her ailing mother.
Despite the challenges she faced, Francisca devoted her life to serving God and her community. She worked as a seamstress to support herself and her mother financially. In her spare time, she actively participated in the Union of Catholic Women, an organization that aimed to promote Catholic values and the welfare of women.
A deeply devout Catholic, Francisca attended Mass daily, seeking spiritual nourishment and drawing strength from the Eucharist. Her faith was not limited to personal devotion but extended to active engagement in Catholic Action, a movement that sought to integrate faith into all aspects of life, including social and political spheres.
Recognized for her strong faith and knowledge of the Catholic faith, Francisca was also involved in catechetical work. She shared her understanding of the teachings of the Church with others, educating them in their faith and helping them deepen their relationship with God.
Tragically, during the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, Francisca's unwavering fidelity to her faith led to her martyrdom. On 19th September 1936, in Torres de Espioca, Benifaió, Valencia, she was killed for her refusal to renounce her Catholic beliefs.
Her unwavering conviction in Christ's kingship was evident even in her dying moments, as she joyously proclaimed, "Viva Christa Rey!" ("Long live Christ the King!"). These words reflect the strength of her faith and her steadfast loyalty to God, even in the face of persecution and death.
Recognizing her heroic virtues and the sacrifice she made for her faith, Pope John Paul II decreed the martyrdom of Blessed Francisca Cualladó Baixauli on 18th December 2000. Her beatification followed a few months later on 11th March 2001, further acknowledging her as a model of faith and virtue for Catholics worldwide.
The feast day of Blessed Francisca Cualladó Baixauli is celebrated on 19th September each year, commemorating the day of her martyrdom. We honor her selflessness, devotion, and courage, and pray that her intercession may inspire us to live out our faith with the same fervor and dedication.