No image available
Feast Day: July 25
Birth: October 15, 1874
Death: July 25, 1936
Blessed Joan Mercer Soler was born on 15 October 1874 in Albiñana, Tarragona, Spain. She entered religious life and became a member of the Claretians, a religious congregation founded by Saint Anthony Mary Claret. On 15 September 1895, Joan professed her religious vows, dedicating her life to the service of God and others.
Recognized for her spiritual gifts and dedication, Joan was ordained a priest on 19 December 1903. She lived her priesthood with great fervor, striving to bring God's love and mercy to those in need. Joan's ministry was characterized by her deep prayer life and her commitment to the Gospel, as she sought to proclaim the good news of Christ in both her words and actions.
Sadly, Joan's life was cut short during the Spanish Civil War. On 25 July 1936, in Sallent, Barcelona, she was martyred for her faith. The political upheaval and religious persecution of that time sought to suppress the Catholic Church and silence its followers. However, Joan remained steadfast in her commitment to Christ, even in the face of adversity.
On 21 December 2016, Pope Francis officially recognized Joan Mercer Soler's martyrdom, a testament to her unwavering faith and ultimate sacrifice. Her beatification ceremony took place on 21 October 2017 at the Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. This significant event, presided over by Archbishop Angelo Amato, marked the Church's recognition of Joan's holiness and her intercessory power.
Blessed Joan Mercer Soler's feast days are celebrated on 25 July and 1 February, as part of the commemoration of the 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs. Her life and example continue to inspire and serve as a reminder of the profound courage and faith of those who gave their lives for their beliefs during the Spanish Civil War.
Through her beatification, Joan Mercer Soler joins the ranks of the blessed, a testament to her heroic virtue and sanctity. She stands as a powerful witness for all Catholics, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their faith and to live out the Gospel, even in the face of persecution. With her intercession, may all who invoke her name be strengthened in their own journey of faith and find solace in her heavenly companionship.