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Feast Day: July 22
Blessed Paolo De Lara, also known as Paolo de Lara, was born to the nobility in an unknown date and place. In the year 1344, he was ordained as a priest and became a member of the Mercedarian Order, a religious community dedicated to the redemption of Christian captives.
Blessed Paolo De Lara dedicated his life to the rescue and redemption of Christians held captive by the Moors in Granada, Spain. During his time as a Mercedarian friar, he embarked on numerous daring missions to negotiate the liberation of Christian slaves, risking his own safety and freedom in the process.
One of his most notable achievements was the ransoming of 209 Christians who were enslaved in Granada. Through his perseverance and unwavering commitment to his mission, he successfully negotiated with the Moorish captors and secured the freedom of these individuals, allowing them to return to their families and communities.
Although specific details about his birth, death, and other aspects of his life are not available, Blessed Paolo De Lara's heroic actions during a time of religious conflict and persecution have earned him recognition and veneration within the Catholic Church.
While his representation is unknown, the Mercedarian Order celebrates his memory and extraordinary work on their feast day, which falls on the 22nd of July. This day serves as a reminder of his selfless dedication to the rescue and redemption of Christians who were held captive during a tumultuous period of history.
Blessed Paolo De Lara's life and deeds exemplify the virtues of courage, compassion, and selflessness. His service to the Church and to humanity is a testament to the power of faith and the tireless pursuit of justice and freedom. While he has yet to be formally canonized, his beatification is a testament to the impact of his ministry and his enduring legacy as a champion for the oppressed and enslaved.