Feast Day: August 28
Birth: January 10, 1889
Death: August 1, 28
Blessed Juan Bautista Faubel Cano was a devout Catholic layman who dedicated his life to serving the Church in the archdiocese of Valencia, Spain. He was born on January 10, 1889, in Liria, Valencia, and grew up in a deeply religious family. From a young age, he demonstrated a strong commitment to his faith and a desire to actively contribute to the mission of the Church.
In 1914, Juan Bautista married Patrocinio Olba Martínez, and together they raised a family of three children. Despite the responsibilities of family life, he remained deeply involved in various religious activities and organizations within his community. His passion for education and his unwavering belief in the value of Catholic education led him to actively work towards establishing and maintaining Catholic schools in his region.
However, during the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, Juan Bautista's unwavering commitment to his Catholic faith and his dedication to preserving Catholic education put him in great danger. The anti-Catholic sentiment that prevailed during the conflict led to his imprisonment and torture. Despite being subjected to unimaginable suffering, he refused to renounce his faith or abandon his principles.
Tragically, Juan Bautista Faubel Cano met a martyr's death at the dawn of August 28, 1936, in Paterna, Valencia. He bravely faced persecution for his religious beliefs, remaining steadfast in his devotion to God until the very end. His courage and unwavering faith during his ordeal have inspired countless individuals since his untimely death.
Recognizing his remarkable holiness and the ultimate sacrifice he made for his faith, Blessed Juan Bautista Faubel Cano was venerated by Pope John Paul II on December 18, 2000, with a decree of martyrdom. Subsequently, on March 11, 2001, Pope John Paul II beatified him, a significant step towards his ultimate canonization as a Catholic saint.
Blessed Juan Bautista Faubel Cano stands as a powerful example of faith, courage, and dedication. His life and martyrdom serve as a testament to the enduring strength of the Catholic Church, even in the face of severe adversity. He continues to be revered and honored, particularly on his feast day, which is celebrated annually on August 28th.