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Feast Day: July 25
Birth: September 24, 1904
Death: July 25, 1936
Blessed MariÖ Binefa Alsinella was born on 24 September 1904 in Anglesola, a small town in the province of Lleida, Spain. He dedicated his life to the service of God and became a member of the Claretians, a religious congregation founded by Saint Anthony Mary Claret. On 11 June 1933, MariÖ professed his religious vows, committing himself to a life of poverty, chastity, and obedience.
Tragically, MariÖ Binefa Alsinella's life was cut short amidst the turmoil of the Spanish Civil War. He was one of the countless victims who suffered persecution for their faith during this dark period in Spanish history. MariÖ courageously refused to renounce his Catholic beliefs, even in the face of severe persecution.
On 25 July 1936, MariÖ Binefa Alsinella was martyred in Sallent, a municipality in the province of Barcelona, Spain. His unwavering faith and steadfast commitment to Christ led to his ultimate sacrifice. MariÖ's martyrdom is a testament to his deep love for God and his unyielding dedication to the Catholic Church.
Recognizing the sanctity of MariÖ Binefa Alsinella's life, Pope Francis decreed his martyrdom on 21 December 2016, officially recognizing him as Blessed. On 21 October 2017, a solemn beatification ceremony took place at the prestigious Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. The beatification was presided over by Archbishop Angelo Amato, the Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, on behalf of Pope Francis.
Blessed MariÖ Binefa Alsinella is remembered and venerated on 25 July each year, the anniversary of his martyrdom. Additionally, he is honored on 1 February, alongside the 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs who also sacrificed their lives during the Spanish Civil War.
The life of Blessed MariÖ Binefa Alsinella serves as an inspiration to all believers, reminding us of the importance of unwavering faith and the willingness to lay down one's life for the sake of the Gospel. His beatification stands as a testament to his holiness and dedication to Christ, encouraging all Catholics to follow in his footsteps of love, service, and self-sacrifice.