Blessed Pau Castellá Barberá

Biography

Blessed Pau Castellá Barberá was born on 3 May 1860 in La Selva del Camp, Tarragona, Spain. He entered the Congregation of Missionaries, Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, commonly known as the Claretians, and dedicated his life to the service of God and his fellow human beings.

Castellá Barberá was a devout and committed member of the Claretians, known for his humility, kindness, and deep faith. His life was marked by his unwavering dedication to spreading the Gospel and assisting those in need. As a Claretian missionary, he worked tirelessly to bring the message of God's love and mercy to communities in Spain.

Tragically, during the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, Castellá Barberá became a victim of religious persecution. On 26 September 1936, in Reus, Tarragona, Spain, he was martyred for his Catholic faith. He endured unimaginable hardships and suffered the ultimate sacrifice, giving his life rather than renouncing his belief in Christ.

The Claretians hold Blessed Pau Castellá Barberá in high regard for his exemplary life and martyrdom. His dedication to his faith and his profound compassion for others serve as an inspiration to this religious order and to Catholics worldwide.

On 28 June 2012, Pope Benedict XVI declared Castellá Barberá venerable, recognizing his martyrdom as a powerful testimony to the strength of his faith and his unwavering commitment to Christ. Pope Francis continued this recognition by beatifying Castellá Barberá on 13 October 2013 in a ceremony held in Tarragona, Spain.

The beatification of Blessed Pau Castellá Barberá is a testament to his sanctity and his selfless sacrifice. His life continues to inspire many faithful Catholics to live their faith courageously, even in the face of adversity.