Blessed Josep Samsó Y Elias

Biography

Blessed Josep Samsó Y Elias, also known as Father Josep, was born on 17 January 1887 in Castellbisball, Valles, Barcelona, Spain. He grew up in the town of Rubí and led a remarkable life dedicated to his faith and the service of others.

Josep's pursuit of knowledge and spiritual growth led him to study at the College of the Marist Brothers, the diocesan seminary of Barcelona, and finally the Pontifical Institute of Tarragona. He was ordained a priest in the Archdiocese of Barcelona on 12 March 1910, embarking on a journey of ministering to the faithful.

After his ordination, Father Josep served as the secretary to the Archbishop, displaying his commitment to the administrative responsibilities within the Church. However, his true calling was in active parish work and pastoral care. He became a parish priest in Argentona, Spain on 13 July 1910, where he faithfully ministered to the spiritual needs of his congregation.

Father Josep's zealous spirit and enthusiasm for his vocation were evident in his preaching and dedication to pious liturgy. He actively encouraged and worked towards the involvement of parishioners in their local community and played a pivotal role in the establishment of Catholic Action in his area. He had a particular concern for the catechism of children, recognizing the importance of forming them in the faith, and even wrote a guide for catechists to aid in this endeavor.

On 1 September 1919, Father Josep was appointed as the archpriest of the Basilica of Santa Maria de Mataro in Barcelona. In addition to his pastoral duties, he served as the treasurer of the basilica, showing his commitment to the financial stewardship of the Church. Throughout his years of service in Mataro, Father Josep continued to preach, educate, and encourage active participation within the faith community.

In July 1936, during the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, Father Josep was arrested because of his vocation as a priest. Undeterred by the circumstances, he displayed unwavering strength and faith in the face of persecution. While imprisoned, Father Josep demonstrated his unwavering dedication to his faith by leading rosary prayers, sharing the lives of the saints, and ministering to his fellow prisoners.

Tragically, on 1 September 1936, Father Josep was martyred for his commitment to the priesthood. He forgave his executioners before his death, embodying the virtues of mercy and forgiveness. Father Josep's body was buried in the chapel of Saintes Giuliana and Semroniana in the parish church of Santa Maria di Mataró on 23 October 1944.

Recognizing the immense sacrifices and exemplary life of Father Josep, he was venerated on 3 July 2009 by Pope Benedict XVI, who decreed his martyrdom. The beatification ceremony took place on 23 January 2010, led by Archbishop Angelo Amato, in the Basilica of Santa Maria in Mataró, Barcelona, Spain. It was a joyous occasion celebrating the life of a dedicated servant of God, remembered for his extraordinary faith, devotion, and selfless service to his community.