Blessed José María Zabal Blasco

Biography

Blessed José María Zabal Blasco, a lifelong layman in the archdiocese of Valencia, Spain, was born on 19 March 1898 in Valencia. At the age of 12, José experienced a significant loss when his father passed away. Despite this tragedy, he pursued his education and eventually found work as an apprentice in a law office.

Throughout his life, José displayed a deep sense of dedication and service to his community. He later joined the Catholic Action movement, where he actively participated in various initiatives aimed at promoting the Catholic faith and serving the needs of others. Additionally, he joined a Catholic trade union, where he became known for his advocacy in defending workers' rights.

On 3 May 1925, José married Catalina Cerdá Palop, and together they were blessed with three children. As a devoted husband and father, José embodied the virtues of love, commitment, and selflessness within his family.

Tragically, José's life was cut short during the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War. In 1936, he was martyred for his unwavering faith and his commitment to defending the rights of workers. José's steadfastness and courage in the face of persecution serve as a testament to his deep spiritual convictions.

Recognizing his extraordinary example of fidelity to the Catholic Church, Pope John Paul II declared Blessed José María Zabal Blasco venerable on 18 December 2000 and beatified him on 11 March 2001. Should further information become available regarding his representation or additional details, they will be duly included in his comprehensive biography.