Blessed Mateu Garrolera Masferrer

Biography

Blessed Mateu Garrolera Masferrer, also known as Mateo Garrolera Masferrer, was born on 11 November 1888 in San Miguel de Oladella, Girona, Spain. He entered the Salesians of Don Bosco, a religious congregation founded by Saint John Bosco, and made his solemn profession on 26 July 1916, committing himself to a life of service and devotion.

During the Spanish Civil War, which took place from 1936 to 1939, Brother Mateu Garrolera Masferrer courageously upheld his religious beliefs, even in the face of persecution. On 2 October 1936, he was tragically shot and martyred in Madrid, Spain. His unwavering faith and commitment to his calling as a Salesian Brother led to his martyrdom.

Blessed Mateu Garrolera Masferrer is commemorated on 2 October, the day of his martyrdom, as his feast day. His life and sacrifice have been widely recognized and venerated within the Catholic Church.

On 26 June 2006, Pope Benedict XVI declared the veneration of Blessed Mateu Garrolera Masferrer, recognizing his martyrdom with a decree. His beatification followed on 28 October 2007, also carried out by Pope Benedict XVI, further affirming his status as a blessed within the Catholic Church.

Although no specific representation or iconography is mentioned in the available information, it is customary for each blessed and saint to have unique symbols or images associated with them, usually reflecting significant events or attributes of their life. These representations would be specific to the individual and their spiritual journey.

Blessed Mateu Garrolera Masferrer's memory continues to be celebrated and revered by Catholics worldwide, serving as an inspiration for those seeking to live a life of faith, devotion, and service, even in the face of adversity.