Blessed Lorenzo Villanueva Larrayoz

Biography

Blessed Lorenzo Villanueva Larrayoz, also known as Pedro de Alcántara, was born on 20 July 1881 in Osinaga, Navarra, Spain. He lived a life dedicated to the service of God and his fellow human beings, ultimately giving his life as a martyr during the Spanish Civil War.

On 4 March 1908, Lorenzo joined the Hospitallers of Saint John of God, a religious order committed to providing care and assistance to the sick and the needy. He dedicated himself to this noble calling, taking up the position of a healthcare worker at the San Rafael asylum hospital in Barcelona, Spain.

Lorenzo's commitment to his vocation was unwavering. He tirelessly cared for the patients at the asylum, demonstrating love, compassion, and a deep sense of responsibility towards those entrusted to his care. He saw his work as an extension of his faith and embraced it with great dedication and humility.

Sadly, during the turbulent years of the Spanish Civil War, Lorenzo's religious faith made him a target for persecution. On 11 September 1936, in Barcelona, Spain, he was tragically martyred for his commitment to his Christian beliefs and his service to the sick. His martyrdom was a testament to his unwavering faith and his willingness to sacrifice his life rather than renounce his religious convictions.

Blessed Lorenzo Villanueva Larrayoz, beatified on 25 October 1992 by Pope John Paul II, is remembered for his selfless devotion to the sick and his unwavering faith in the face of persecution. His feast days are celebrated on 11 September and 30 July alongside the other Martyred Hospitallers of Spain, honoring their sacrifice and dedication to their vocation.

As a devoted Hospitaller, Lorenzo Villanueva Larrayoz serves as an inspirational figure and a shining example of love and compassion in the face of adversity. His life and martyrdom continue to inspire countless individuals to follow in his footsteps, serving the needs of others and remaining steadfast in their faith.