Blessed Josep Tous Soler

Biography

Blessed Josep Tous Soler, also known as Józef Tous y Soler or Josep de Igualada, was born on 31 March 1811 in Igualada, Barcelona, Spain. From a young age, he felt a calling to religious life and at the age of 15, he joined the Franciscan Capuchins. His commitment to his vocation led him to profess his vows on 19 February 1828.

After several years of dedicated formation, Josep was ordained as a priest on 24 May 1834 in Barcelona. Unfortunately, just two months later, Catalonia was ravaged by anti-clerical violence, and Josep was forced into exile from his own country. For the following nine years, he ministered to the faithful in France, far away from his homeland.

In 1843, Josep was finally able to return to Spain, but he encountered a challenging situation. The government had outlawed religious orders, making it difficult for him to continue living as a Capuchin. Nonetheless, he embraced his circumstances and wholeheartedly served as a dedicated parish priest, always striving to live up to the ideals of his Franciscan upbringing.

During his time as a parish priest, Josep had a deep desire to address the needs of the youth in his community. He was particularly concerned with their pastoral care and education. In 1850, he took a significant step towards fulfilling this calling when he led a group of young women who shared his vision. This group would later develop into an official congregation known as the Capuchin Sisters of the Mother of the Divine Shepherd. Their purpose was to devote themselves to nurturing and teaching young children, guided by the principles of their order.

Blessed Josep Tous Soler remained a devoted parish priest until the end of his days. On 27 February 1871, while joyfully celebrating Mass, he passed away in Barcelona, Spain due to natural causes. His life was a testament to his unwavering faith and commitment to serving others.

Recognizing the exceptional virtues exhibited by Josep throughout his lifetime, Pope Benedict XVI declared his heroic virtues on 22 December 2008, bestowing upon him the title of Venerable. This important step in the canonization process acknowledged Josep's remarkable sanctity and the inspiring example he set for others.

On 25 April 2010, in a beatification ceremony celebrated by Pope Benedict XVI, Blessed Josep Tous Soler was officially raised to the altars. The recognition took place in the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar, Barcelona, Spain, and was presided over by Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone. This momentous occasion marked the acknowledgment of Josep's holiness and the faithful's devotion to him as a blessed intercessor.

Blessed Josep Tous Soler's life continues to inspire countless individuals, reminding us of the importance of faith, perseverance, and service to others. His unwavering commitment to his Franciscan ideals and his impact on the education and pastoral care of young children have left a lasting legacy within the Catholic Church. His feast days are celebrated on 27 February and, according to some calendars, on 27 May as well. Through his example and intercession, Blessed Josep Tous Soler invites us all to live a life of Christ-centered love and selflessness.