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Feast Day: July 24
Birth: February 8, 1898
Death: July 24, 1936
Blessed José Joaquín Esnaola Urteaga was born on February 8, 1898, in Idiazábal, Guip√∫zcoa, Spain. He grew up in a devout Catholic family and demonstrated a strong inclination towards religious life from an early age. After completing his early education, he entered the Order of Saint Augustine and was ordained a priest.
Blessed José Joaquín's life of service to God and humanity was tragically cut short during the Spanish Civil War. He was martyred for his faith and unwavering commitment to his religious duties on July 24, 1936, in Leganés, Madrid, Spain. His death was a result of the violent persecution and religious intolerance that marked this dark period in Spanish history.
Blessed José Joaquín Esnaola Urteaga's courageous sacrifice and steadfastness in the face of adversity earned him great admiration and respect among his contemporaries as well as future generations. Recognizing his exemplification of Christian virtue and martyrdom, Pope Benedict XVI declared him venerable on June 1, 2007. Later that year, on October 28, 2007, Pope Benedict XVI beatified him, giving him the title of "Blessed."
As an Augustinian priest, Blessed José Joaquín would have devoted himself to a life of prayer, study, and pastoral care. The Order of Saint Augustine, also known as the Augustinians, is a mendicant religious order within the Catholic Church. Members of the Order balance a contemplative life with active ministry, serving the spiritual needs of the faithful through preaching, teaching, and pastoral guidance.
Although specific details about Blessed José Joaquín Esnaola Urteaga's representation are not available, as a beatified saint, he is believed to have a special place in heaven and intercedes for those who invoke his name and seek his intercession. His feast day is observed on July 24th each year, commemorating the day of his martyrdom.
Blessed José Joaquín's life and martyrdom stand as a testimony to his unwavering faith, devotion to God, and love for his fellow human beings. His beatification serves as a reminder of the countless individuals who suffered persecution and sacrifice for their religious beliefs during the Spanish Civil War. His story inspires us to remain steadfast in our faith, even in the face of adversity, and to work tirelessly for the betterment of society.