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Feast Day: August 17
Birth: January 14, 1877
Death: August 1, 17
Blessed Josep Puigdeséns Pujol was born on January 14, 1877, in Vic, Barcelona, Spain. He joined the Claretians, a religious congregation founded by St. Anthony Mary Claret, and professed his vows on August 20, 1893. His commitment to the religious life led him to be ordained as a priest on September 29, 1901.
Blessed Josep Puigdeséns Pujol served diligently as a member of the Claretians, dedicating himself to proclaiming the Gospel and ministering to the spiritual needs of the people. With great devotion and love for God, he carried out various pastoral duties, offering guidance, preaching, and administering the sacraments to the faithful.
During the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, which took place from 1936 to 1939, Spain was gripped by a violent and anti-Catholic ideology. As a result, religious persecution was rampant, and many priests, religious, and faithful were targeted for their faith. Tragically, Blessed Josep Puigdeséns Pujol became a victim of this persecution.
On August 17, 1936, in Vic, Barcelona, Blessed Josep Puigdeséns Pujol was ruthlessly shot and martyred for his unwavering commitment to Christ and the Catholic Church. His martyrdom was an ultimate testament to his faith and his willingness to give his life in the name of Jesus.
The heroic virtues and sacrifice demonstrated by Blessed Josep Puigdeséns Pujol, along with 108 other Claretian Martyrs, did not go unnoticed. On December 21, 2016, Pope Francis declared them all venerable, recognizing their strong faith and their courageous witness to the Gospel.
Further recognizing the sanctity and martyrdom of Blessed Josep Puigdeséns Pujol, Pope Francis proceeded to beatify him on October 21, 2017. The beatification ceremony took place at the Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain, and was presided over by Archbishop Angelo Amato.
As a blessed of the Catholic Church, Blessed Josep Puigdeséns Pujol is celebrated on his feast day, which is observed on August 17. Additionally, he is honored on February 1 as one of the 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs who sacrificed their lives for their faith.
Blessed Josep Puigdeséns Pujol's life stands as an inspiration and a reminder of the profound faith and dedication exhibited by the many Catholic martyrs throughout history. His story serves as a testament to the enduring strength of the Church and the transformative power of God's love even in the face of persecution.