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Feast Day: July 26
Birth: September 14, 1895
Death: July 1, 26
Blessed Manuel Jové Bonet was born on September 14, 1895, in Vallbona de las Monjas, Lleida, Spain. He dedicated himself to the service of God and became a member of the Claretians, a religious congregation founded by Saint Anthony Mary Claret.
On August 15, 1912, Manuel Jové Bonet professed his religious vows, expressing his commitment to live a life of poverty, chastity, and obedience in the footsteps of Christ. He continued his studies and preparation for the priesthood, and on May 28, 1926, he was ordained as a Catholic priest.
During the turbulent period of the Spanish Civil War, which began in 1936, Father Manuel Jové Bonet fearlessly adhered to his faith and continued to minister to the people during these perilous times. Unfortunately, his unwavering commitment to his vocation would lead to his martyrdom.
On July 26, 1936, in Lleida, Spain, Father Manuel Jové Bonet was tragically shot to death, a victim of the religious persecution that swept through the country during the war. The Spanish Civil War was characterized by widespread violence and persecution against Catholics and religious figures who were seen as a threat to the secular ideologies of the time.
The courageous sacrifice of Father Manuel Jové Bonet and his dedication to the Gospel of Christ was recognized by Pope Francis on December 21, 2016. The Pope officially declared him venerated, acknowledging his martyrdom as an exemplary witness to the faith.
On October 21, 2017, the beatification of Blessed Manuel Jové Bonet took place at the Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. The ceremony was presided over by Archbishop Angelo Amato, who represented the Holy See. This beatification served as a public acknowledgment and celebration of Father Manuel Jové Bonet's heroic virtue and the supreme sacrifice he made for his faith.
We honor and venerate Blessed Manuel Jové Bonet as one of the 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs, whose feast day is commemorated on July 26. Additionally, he is also remembered on February 1 alongside his fellow Claretian martyrs. His life and witness inspire us to stand firm in our faith and to courageously follow in the footsteps of Christ, even in the face of adversity.