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Feast Day: October 3
Birth: February 16, 1916
Death: October 1, 3
Blessed Jes√∫s Emilio Jaramillo Monsalve, also known as Father Jes√∫s, was born on 16 February 1916 in Santo Domingo, Antioquia, Colombia. He was the son of Alberto Jaramillo, a craftsman, and Cecilia Monsalve, a housewife. At the tender age of one day, Jes√∫s was baptized into the Catholic faith.
Jes√∫s showed a profound calling to the priesthood from a young age and pursued his vocation in the minor seminary. He eventually joined the Misioneros Javerianos de Yarumal (Xaverian Missionaries of Yarumal) and was ordained a priest on 1 September 1940. Throughout his priesthood, Father Jes√∫s served the Church with unwavering devotion and commitment.
He began his ministry as a parish priest in Sabanalarga, Colombia, where he tirelessly cared for the spiritual needs of the local community. Father Jes√∫s also worked as a chaplain and spiritual advisor at a women's prison, providing solace and guidance to the incarcerated. His compassionate nature and deep faith drew people towards him, seeking his counsel and spiritual direction.
Recognized for his knowledge and expertise, Father Jes√∫s became a spiritual director of seminarians and the novice master of the Misioneros in 1945. He shared his extensive knowledge by teaching dogmatic theology, Sacred Scripture, Hebrew, and Greek in the seminary. His love for education and his desire to shape future priests led him to take on the role of rector of seminarians from 1951 to 1959.
Father Jes√∫s's commitment to the Church and his leadership skills were further acknowledged when he was appointed Superior-General of the Misioneros from 1959 to 1966. In this role, he guided and directed the Xaverian Missionaries, spreading the Gospel message both at home and abroad.
On 11 November 1970, Pope Paul VI recognized Father Jes√∫s's capabilities and appointed him Vicar Apostolic of Arauca, Colombia, granting him the title of Titular Bishop of Strumnitza. This appointment elevated him to the episcopal rank, where he continued to serve the Church with dedication and zeal.
Later, on 19 July 1984, Pope John Paul II chose Bishop Jes√∫s Emilio Jaramillo Monsalve to become the Bishop of Arauca, Colombia, a position he faithfully carried out until his martyrdom.
Father Jes√∫s was a fervent advocate for justice and truth. He fearlessly spoke out against the teachings and atrocities of the Communist rebel group E.L.N., denouncing their violence and oppression. Unfortunately, his brave stance led to his capture on 2 October 1989, during pastoral visits. He was subjected to brutal torture and abuse before being mercilessly murdered, shot twice in the head on 3 October 1989 near Fortul, Arauca, Colombia.
The Catholic Church recognizes the martyrdom of Jes√∫s Emilio Jaramillo Monsalve, bestowing upon him the title of Blessed. His unwavering faith, selfless dedication to his ministry, and courageous stance against injustice and violence continue to inspire believers worldwide. Pope Francis venerated him on 7 July 2017, declaring his martyrdom through an official decree. Subsequently, on 8 September 2017, Pope Francis presided over the beatification recognition ceremony, held at the Parque Temático Las Malocas in Villavicencio, Meta, Colombia.
Blessed Jes√∫s Emilio Jaramillo Monsalve, a true martyr and devoted servant of God, represents a shining example of faith, courage, and dedication to following the teachings of Christ. His life and sacrifice continue to inspire Catholics to live out their faith with unwavering commitment and to stand for justice and truth in the face of adversity.