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Feast Day: July 28
Birth: January 22, 1881
Death: July 1, 28
Blessed Manuel Seguralópez, also known as Manuel of the Virgin of the Pillar or Emanuele Segura, was a Catholic priest who dedicated his life to serving God and his community in Spain. He was born on January 22, 1881, in Almonacid de la Sierra, Zaragoza, Spain.
At the age of 18, Manuel entered the Piarist novitiate and began his journey of religious formation. His passion for learning and teaching brought him to the Piarist school in Zaragoza, where he served in the educational field. Manuel's dedication and commitment to his religious vocation led him to take his first religious vows in 1901.
After several years of deepening his spiritual life and continuing his education, Manuel was ordained as a priest in 1907 in the diocese of Barbastro, Spain. This marked the beginning of his ministry, which would span various cities and touch the lives of many.
Throughout his priestly life, Manuel served as a parish priest in several Spanish cities, including Barbastro, Tamarite de Litera, Pamplona, Tafalla, Torre de Cascajo, and Peralta de la Sal. He was known for his compassionate heart, reaching out particularly to young people who were discerning a vocation to the priesthood or religious life. Manuel had a special ministry in guiding and mentoring these individuals, helping them navigate the path of discernment and facilitating their spiritual growth.
Tragically, Manuel's life was cut short during the Spanish Civil War. On July 28, 1936, he was martyred, being shot on the road near Purroy de la Solana, Huesca, Spain. In an act of brutality, his body was burned by his killers, adding to the pain and sorrow of his untimely death.
Despite the cruelty and violence that marked the end of his life, the memory of Manuel's faith, dedication, and selfless service endured. He was beatified on October 1, 1995, by Pope John Paul II, who recognized his martyrdom and heroic virtue. This recognition honors Manuel as a model of fidelity to Christ and an inspiration for all believers.
Blessed Manuel Seguralópez remains a revered figure in the Catholic Church, especially among those who value the importance of vocational discernment and nurturing the spiritual growth of young people. His life and martyrdom remind us of the sacrifices made by countless individuals who have dedicated their lives to God's service, providing an example of faith and virtue to follow.