Blessed Martí Tarrés Puigpelat

Biography

Blessed Martí Tarrés Puigpelat was born on October 8, 1877, in a farmhouse outside Berga, Barcelona, Spain. From a young age, he felt a deep devotion to the Catholic faith and felt called to dedicate his life to God. At the age of 18, Martí joined the Franciscan Capuchins on November 21, 1886, in Arenys de Mar, Spain.

Martí Tarrés made his solemn profession in the Capuchin order on November 25, 1900, and was ordained as a priest on June 24, 1901. Known for his exceptional preaching skills, he quickly gained popularity and became well-known throughout the region for his ability to inspire and touch the hearts of his listeners.

During his religious life, Martí served as the superior of monasteries in Igualada and Arenys de Mar, Spain. He also undertook the significant responsibility of being the Capuchin visitator of Central America, contributing to the growth and organization of the order in that region. Martí's dedication and exemplary leadership qualities led to his appointment as the provincial superior of his Order.

However, during the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, Martí Tarrés found himself in great danger due to his strong faith and commitment to the Catholic Church. On February 16, 1937, he was arrested while seeking refuge in a residence, attempting to hide from the anti-Catholic Marxist forces that were prevalent at that time.

The authorities immediately identified him as a priest, and despite his peaceful intentions, he was condemned to death. On February 17, 1937, Martí Tarrés Puigpelat was martyred in Barcelona, Spain, for his unwavering allegiance to his faith and his refusal to renounce his Catholic beliefs.

Recognizing his heroic virtues and the ultimate sacrifice he made for his faith, Martí Tarrés was venerated on June 5, 2015, by Pope Francis, who declared his martyrdom. On November 21, 2015, Pope Francis beatified him, leading to a solemn celebration at the cathedral of Santa Creu i Santa EulÖlia in Barcelona, Spain. Cardinal Angelo Amato presided over the beatification ceremony, where the life and witness of Blessed Martí Tarrés Puigpelat were honored and held up as an example of true Christian devotion and martyrdom.

Despite the limited information available about Blessed Martí Tarrés Puigpelat's personal life, his unwavering faith, powerful preaching, and courageous sacrifice in the face of persecution make him a revered figure among the Martyred Franciscan Capuchins of Barcelona. His feast day is commemorated on February 17, the day of his martyrdom, and he is also remembered on November 6, along with other martyred members of the Capuchin order.