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Feast Day: July 24
Birth: July 25, 1891
Death: July 1, 24
Blessed Jaume Baríau Y Martí, also known as Josep Oriol of Barcelona or Giuseppe Oriol of Barcelona, was born on 25 July 1891 in Barcelona, Spain. He was a devout Catholic who felt a strong calling to serve God from a young age. In 1906, he joined the Capuchin Franciscan Friars Minor and made his solemn profession on 15 August 1911.
Recognized for his intelligence and dedication, Jaume was ordained as a priest on 29 May 1915. He possessed a deep knowledge of liturgy, Hebrew, and Church history, and he eagerly shared this knowledge with others. Father Jaume was appointed as a teacher in the seminary at Sarriá, Barcelona, where he would educate future priests. He resided at the Franciscan convent in Manresa, fostering a life of prayer and contemplation.
During the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, Father Jaume remained steadfast in his faith and commitment to his religious duties. Despite the dangers that surrounded him, he courageously continued his pastoral work. He took great care in tending to the spiritual needs of his community, celebrating Mass, administering the sacraments, and providing comfort to those in distress.
On 24 July 1936, Father Jaume embarked on a fateful mission to bring Holy Communion to a Poor Clare nun. Tragically, while delivering the Eucharist, he was intercepted by Communist militiamen who recognized him as a Catholic priest. Subjected to torture and martyrdom due to his religious affiliation, Father Jaume faced his untimely death as a result of his unwavering commitment to his faith.
Blessed Jaume Baríau Y Martí's martyrdom during the Spanish Civil War attests to his resolute dedication to Christ and the Church. His life and death serve as a powerful testimony of faith in the face of persecution, making him an inspiration to Catholics worldwide.
Following years of veneration and acknowledgement of his martyrdom, Pope Francis officially recognized Father Jaume's heroic sacrifice on 23 January 2020 with a decree of martyrdom. This acknowledgment paved the way for his beatification, which took place on 6 November 2021, also celebrated at the Basilica of Santa Maria in Manresa, Spain.
Although no specific representations of Blessed Jaume Baríau Y Martí are mentioned, it is likely that he is depicted as a Capuchin Franciscan friar, wearing the traditional brown habit and hood associated with the order.
Blessed Jaume Baríau Y Martí's feast day is celebrated on 24 July each year, memorializing the day he was martyred. His life and martyrdom serve as a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the bravery displayed by those who sacrifice everything for the sake of their beliefs.