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Feast Day: October 4
Birth: March 11, 1899
Death: October 4, 1936
Blessed Juan José Orayen Aizcorbe, born on 11 March 1899 in Osacar, Navarra, Spain, was a devoted Catholic monk and a member of the Hospitallers of Saint John of God. He lived during a time of great unrest in Spain, which eventually led to the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War.
Juan José Orayen Aizcorbe joined the Hospitallers of Saint John of God, a religious order known for their care of the sick and the marginalized. As a monk, he dedicated his life to serving those in need, following the example of Saint John of God, the founder of his religious community.
In the midst of the social and political turbulence that engulfed Spain during the 1930s, Juan José Orayen Aizcorbe remained committed to his faith and his calling. However, his unwavering devotion would make him a target of persecution.
Tragically, on 4 October 1936, in La Malvarrosa, Valencia, Spain, Blessed Juan José Orayen Aizcorbe was martyred for his religious beliefs during the Spanish Civil War. He courageously stood firm in his faith, refusing to renounce his commitment to God despite the threats and dangers he faced.
Juan José Orayen Aizcorbe's life of selfless service and his ultimate sacrifice made him a shining example of Christian virtue and resilience. Recognizing the sanctity of his life and the circumstances of his death, Pope Francis officially declared him venerable on 5 July 2013, accrediting him with the decree of martyrdom.
Continuing the path of recognition, Pope Francis beatified Juan José Orayen Aizcorbe on 13 October 2013. This beatification ceremony honored his heroism, faith, and steadfast dedication to serving God and his fellow human beings amidst the challenging and hostile circumstances of the Spanish Civil War.
As a blessed and martyr of the Catholic Church, Juan José Orayen Aizcorbe is venerated by the faithful on his feast day, which falls on 4 October. His life offers an inspiration for all believers, reminding us of the profound commitment that should characterize our own faiths and the importance of standing up for truth and justice, even in the face of adversity.