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Feast Day: July 24
Birth: February 3, 1866
Death: July 24, 1936
Blessed Josep Guillamí Rodo, also known as Father Romuald of Saint Catherine, was a Spanish Catholic priest and member of the Discalced Carmelites. He was born on 3 February 1866 in Llansa, Girona, Spain. Josep Guillamí Rodo devoted his life to religious service and became a priest, taking on the name Father Romuald of Saint Catherine.
As a member of the Discalced Carmelites, Father Romuald lived a life of simplicity, poverty, and prayer. He embraced the contemplative spirituality of the order, seeking union with God through solitude and devotion. Father Romuald's deep commitment to his faith and his dedication to serving others earned him respect and admiration within the religious community.
Unfortunatey, the Spanish Civil War erupted in the late 1930s, marking a period of intense political and social turmoil in Spain. Catholic priests and religious figures faced great persecution during this time, and Father Romuald became a victim of the violent conflict. On 24 July 1936, he was martyred on the L’Arrabassada highway in Barcelona, Spain.
The life and death of Father Romuald were marked by an unwavering faith and courage in the face of adversity. His martyrdom was a testament to his firm belief in his religious convictions and his dedication to serving God and his fellow human beings.
In recognition of his sanctity and martyrdom, Father Romuald was venerated by the Catholic Church. On 22 June 2004, Pope John Paul II declared him venerable through a decree of martyrdom. Then, on 28 October 2007, Pope Benedict XVI beatified Father Romuald, affirming his status as a blessed saint within the Church.
The feast day of Blessed Josep Guillamí Rodo, Father Romuald of Saint Catherine, is celebrated on 24 July, the anniversary of his martyrdom. On this day, Catholics around the world remember and honor his life, sacrifice, and unwavering faith.
Blessed Josep Guillamí Rodo's example of selfless devotion and steadfast faith continues to inspire and serve as a beacon of hope for Catholics and all those seeking to live a life of holiness.