Blessed Lluís Albi Aguilar

Biography

Blessed Lluís Albi Aguilar, also known as Lluís Albiá or Luis Albi, was a Spanish Catholic priest and member of the Claretians, a religious congregation founded by Saint Anthony Mary Claret in 1849. He was born on 1 April 1910 in Barcelona, Spain.

During his early years, Lluís Albi felt a calling to the priesthood and entered the Congregation of the Mission of the Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, commonly known as the Claretians. He professed his religious vows on 31 August 1926 as a member of the congregation. Lluís Albi dedicated himself to the service of God and the Church, diligently pursuing his studies and spiritual formation.

On 26 May 1934, Lluís Albi was ordained a priest in the city of Solsona, Spain. He passionately embraced his priestly mission, seeking to bring God's love and mercy to all those he encountered. As a faithful Claretian, he was committed to the spiritual welfare of the people, spreading the Gospel and encouraging faith in the troubled times of the early 20th century.

Sadly, the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War in 1936 brought immense religious persecution and turmoil in Spain. Father Lluís Albi found himself caught in the violent upheaval that targeted clergy and religious. On 21 August 1936, he was unjustly arrested in Lleida and cruelly executed, embracing a martyr's death for his unwavering faith and commitment to Christ.

Blessed Lluís Albi Aguilar is remembered for his courage and steadfast witness to the Catholic faith during a time of great hostility towards the Church. His life stands as a testament to his unwavering devotion to God and his willingness to lay down his life for the sake of his faith.

Recognizing his martyrdom and exemplary virtue, Pope Francis declared Lluís Albi venerable on 21 December 2016. Later, on 21 October 2017, Pope Francis beatified Lluís Albi along with 108 other Spanish Claretian Martyrs. The beatification ceremony took place at the Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain, and was presided over by Archbishop Angelo Amato.

Today, Blessed Lluís Albi Aguilar is honored as a model of faith and valor in the face of persecution. His feast day is celebrated on 21 August, the day of his martyrdom, and also on 1 February as one of the 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs. His life continues to inspire and encourage the faithful to stand firm in their beliefs, even in the face of adversity.