Blessed Juan Díaz Nosti

Biography

Blessed Juan Díaz Nosti, born on 17 February 1880 in Oviedo, Asturias, Spain, was a dedicated servant of God and a member of the Claretians. He joined the Order in 1893 and dedicated his life to the service of the Church.

After years of formation and spiritual growth, Juan Díaz Nosti was ordained as a priest in 1906 in Zaragoza, Spain. With his deep faith and commitment, he quickly became known for his exceptional zeal and fervor in preaching the Word of God.

In 1913, Juan Díaz Nosti was appointed the Superior of the Claretian community in Calatayud, Spain. During his tenure, he provided exemplary leadership and guidance to his fellow religious, fostering an environment of prayer, study, and devotion.

Recognized for his profound knowledge of moral theology, Blessed Juan Díaz Nosti began teaching the subject in Barbastro, Spain, in 1916. For the next 18 years, he served as a dedicated educator, shaping the hearts and minds of countless students who were fortunate to learn from him.

In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Juan Díaz Nosti also served as the Prefect of students in Barbastro, demonstrating a deep commitment to their formation and spiritual growth. His pastoral guidance and personal example were instrumental in nurturing the spiritual lives of the Claretian seminarians under his care.

Blessed Juan Díaz Nosti was not only revered as an educator and spiritual director but also recognized for his powerful and inspiring preaching. His sermons were characterized by their deep theological insights, clarity, and profound impact on the faithful.

Tragically, in the midst of the Spanish Civil War, Juan Díaz Nosti fell victim to the violent persecutions of the time. On 2 August 1936, he was martyred, shot at the gates of the cemetery in Barbastro, Huesca, Spain. His unwavering faith and commitment to Christ and the Church led him to sacrifice his life for his beliefs.

Recognizing the heroic virtues and the sacrificial death of Blessed Juan Díaz Nosti, the process of his beatification began. On 7 March 1992, Pope John Paul II declared him venerable, acknowledging his martyrdom. Later that same year, on 25 October 1992, Pope John Paul II officially beatified him.

Blessed Juan Díaz Nosti's feast days are celebrated on 2 August and 13 August, as one of the Martyred Claretians of Barbastro. His life of service, his dedication to teaching and spiritual direction, and his ultimate sacrifice inspire all who learn about his courageous faith and unwavering commitment to Christ and the Church.