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Feast Day: October 18
Birth: October 24, 1879
Death: October 18, 1936
Blessed Joan Buxó Font was a member of the Claretians, a religious congregation of priests founded by Saint Anthony Mary Claret. He was born on October 24, 1879, in Montcada, Barcelona, Spain.
Joan Buxó Font was raised in a devout Catholic family and felt a deep calling to the priesthood from a young age. With a strong desire to serve God and his fellow human beings, he entered the religious life and joined the Claretians. He exhibited great zeal in his ministry and was known for his dedication to spreading the Gospel and offering spiritual guidance to those in need.
During the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, Joan Buxó Font continued to carry out his pastoral duties despite the increasing persecution faced by the Catholic Church. The war resulted in a wave of anti-religious sentiment, with many priests and religious individuals being targeted for their faith.
Tragically, on October 18, 1936, Joan Buxó Font was martyred in Cervera, Lleida, Spain, for his unwavering commitment to his faith. He courageously refused to renounce his belief in Christ, even in the face of imminent danger and threat to his life.
His martyrdom solidified his place among the 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs, a group of religious men who were similarly persecuted for their faith during the Spanish Civil War. The Catholic Church recognized his martyrdom, and on December 21, 2016, Pope Francis declared him venerable, acknowledging his heroic witness to the Christian faith.
Subsequently, on October 21, 2017, Pope Francis beatified Joan Buxó Font, recognizing his sanctity and conferring upon him the title of "Blessed." The beatification ceremony took place at the grand Basilica of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. Archbishop Angelo Amato, who was a representative of the Pope, presided over the solemn ceremony, honoring Buxó Font's remarkable life and sacrificial death.
Blessed Joan Buxó Font serves as an inspiration for all Catholics and believers alike, demonstrating unwavering faith, courage, and commitment to God even in the most challenging of times. His life and martyrdom remind us of the profound sacrifices made by countless men and women who have laid down their lives for their faith throughout history.