Blessed Marcelo Spínola Y Maestre

Biography

Blessed José María Azurmendi Mugarza, also known as José Azurmendi Larrènaga, was born on August 18, 1870, in Durango, Vizcaya, Spain. Baptized on the day of his birth, his baptism was hoped to ensure his survival, as it seemed that he and his twin brother, Agapito, might not make it through the day.

In his late teens, José felt a strong call to religious life and responded by joining the Franciscan Friars Minor on January 31, 1887. After several years of formation and discernment, he made his profession as a Franciscan on July 22, 1891. José's dedication to his vocation led him to continue his studies, and he was ordained a priest by Blessed Marcelo Spínola y Maestre on May 30, 1896.

Father José began his ministry at the convent of Fuenteobejuna before being assigned to various houses in the Holy Lands, specifically caring for the spiritual needs of residents and pilgrims in Bethlehem, Haim Carem, and Nazareth from February 1900 onwards. His commitment to his work led him to be appointed as the novice master in Bethlehem on July 31, 1902.

Later, José served as the superior of the Rose Garden hospice near Alexandria, Egypt, starting in September 1907, and then as the superior of the hospice in Damietta, Egypt, from July 1908. However, in the summer of 1913, José returned to Spain. For the next 23 years, he dedicated himself to serving as a spiritual teacher at various convents, as well as taking on administrative responsibilities within the Franciscan province.

Despite his devoted service, José's strong commitment to his faith would ultimately lead to his martyrdom. During the Spanish Civil War, he was imprisoned and executed for the "offense" of being a priest. On September 21, 1936, at noon, José María Azurmendi Mugarza faced his martyrdom in the courtyard of the prison in Azuaga, Badajoz, Spain.

In recognition of his heroic virtues and martyrdom, Pope Benedict XVI declared Blessed José María Azurmendi Mugarza to be venerable on April 28, 2006. Later, on October 28, 2007, Pope Benedict XVI beatified him, acknowledging his sanctity and example to the faithful. As a blessed, José is honored with feast days on September 21 and November 6, as one of the Martyred Friars Minor of Granada.

Blessed José María Azurmendi Mugarza's life and martyrdom stand as a testament to his unwavering faith, his commitment to the Franciscan order, and his selfless dedication to serving others.