No image available
Feast Day: August 2
Blessed Juana De Aza, also known as Jane of Aza, Joan of Aza, or Joanna of Aza, was born into the noble family of Caleruega in the province of Old Castile, Spain. She was the daughter of Felix de Caleruega, who held the position of constable of Castile.
Juana was known not only for her physical beauty but also for her remarkable spiritual qualities. She possessed a deep faith and lived a devout Christian life. In her youth, she caught the attention of Felix de Guzman, the governor of Calaruega, Burgos, Spain, and they were married around the year 1165.
Together, Juana and Felix had four children. Their oldest son was Venerable Anthony, who would go on to become a priest. The middle son, Blessed Manés, also pursued a religious vocation. However, it was their youngest son, Saint Dominic de Guzman, who would become one of the most influential figures in Catholicism and the founder of the Dominican Order.
During her pregnancy with Dominic, Juana had a prophetic vision. In this vision, she saw her unborn child depicted as a dog carrying a torch in its mouth, symbolizing the impact he would have on the world. This image of the dog with a torch became an emblem for the Dominicans.
Blessed Juana De Aza was admired and respected not only by her family but also by the local community. She was a woman of great virtue, known for her piety and devotion to God. Her influence on her children, especially on Saint Dominic, cannot be understated.
After a life lived in service to God and her family, Juana passed away around the year 1190 in Celeruga, Spain, of natural causes. Her death gave rise to immediate popular devotion, as people recognized her loving and holy nature.
In 1828, Pope Leo XII officially beatified Juana De Aza, recognizing her as Blessed Juana De Aza. Her beatification confirmed the cultus of veneration, and she is honored on her feast day, which falls on August 2nd each year.
Blessed Juana De Aza's life serves as an inspiration for Christian women, as she exemplified the strength, faith, and dedication of a devout Catholic. Her role as the mother of Saint Dominic highlights her significant influence in nurturing a saintly child who would go on to impact the Church profoundly. May her life continue to inspire and guide us on our journey of faith.