Blessed Juan Moreno Juárez

Biography

Blessed Juan Moreno Juárez, also known as Blessed Juan Moreno, was a priest of the archdiocese of Granada, Spain. He was born on December 15, 1891, in the small village of Válor, located in the province of Granada.

Growing up in a devout Catholic family, Juan Moreno developed a strong faith and a deep love for the Church. He received his primary education in Válor and later pursued his studies in philosophy and theology in Granada. After completing his seminary formation, he was ordained a priest for the archdiocese of Granada.

Throughout his priesthood, Blessed Juan Moreno served with great dedication and compassion, ministering to the spiritual needs of the faithful in various parishes of the region. His kind demeanor, humility, and fervent preaching made him beloved among his parishioners, who sought his guidance and support.

Tragically, during the turbulent years of the Spanish Civil War, which began in 1936, Spain was engulfed in a wave of religious persecution. As a result, many priests and religious faced extreme hostility and violence for their faith. Unfortunately, Blessed Juan Moreno became a victim of this persecution.

On September 4, 1936, in the town of Berja, Almería, Spain, Blessed Juan Moreno Juárez was martyred for his unwavering faith. He displayed incredible courage and strength as he endured martyrdom, remaining firm in his commitment to Christ and the Church until his last breath.

Recognizing the heroic virtues and sacrificial death of Blessed Juan Moreno, his cause for beatification was initiated. On June 14, 2016, Pope Francis declared him venerable, acknowledging his life of holiness and martyrdom. This significant step paved the way for his beatification ceremony, which took place on March 25, 2017, in the Palacio de Exposiciones y Congresos de Aguadulce, Almería, Spain.

The beatification ceremony was presided over by Cardinal Angelo Amato, representing Pope Francis. With the beatification, Blessed Juan Moreno Juárez was declared blessed and was added to the ranks of the Church's esteemed martyrs and intercessors. His feast day is celebrated on September 4th each year, the day of his martyrdom.

Blessed Juan Moreno's courage and fidelity in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration to all believers. His life and martyrdom remind us of the countless individuals who gave their lives for their faith during a dark period in Spain's history. Blessed Juan Moreno Juárez continues to intercede for us and is a beacon of hope, encouraging us to remain steadfast in our faith and to stand up for the truth, even in the face of persecution.