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Feast Day: November 13
Birth: July 19, 1919
Death: November 1, 11
Blessed Pavel Dzidzov, also known as Josef Dzidzov, was born on 19 July 1919 in Plovdiv, within the diocese of Plovdiv, Bulgaria. He entered the Congregation of the Assumption in 1926 and dedicated his life to the service of God and the Catholic Church.
After completing his early education, Blessed Pavel pursued his studies at Saint Augustine College in Plovdiv from 1931 to 1938. Recognizing his passion for theology and philosophy, he decided to further his education and deepen his understanding of these disciplines. Therefore, from 1938 to 1942, he studied theology and philosophy in Lormoa.
Upon completion of his theological studies, Blessed Pavel was ordained as a priest on 26 January 1945 in Plovdiv. He tirelessly served the faithful, dedicating himself to spreading the teachings of the Catholic Church and providing spiritual guidance to all who sought it.
During the repressive era of the Bulgarian Communist regime, Blessed Pavel's commitment to his faith and priesthood caught the attention of the Communist government. On 4 July 1952, he was arrested by the Communist authorities at the Assumptionist seminary in Plovdiv. The charges against him were rooted in the government's perception of priesthood as an anti-state crime.
Blessed Pavel's unwavering faith and refusal to renounce his religious beliefs led to his martyrdom. On 11 November 1952, at 11:30pm, he was shot by a Bulgarian Communist firing squad. His willingness to die for his faith stands as a testament to his steadfast commitment to God and his vocation.
In recognition of his heroic faith and martyrdom, Blessed Pavel Dzidzov was venerated on 23 April 2002 by Pope John Paul II, who declared him a martyr. Pope John Paul II then beatified him on 26 May 2002 in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, further acknowledging his sanctity and devotion.
Blessed Pavel Dzidzov's feast day is celebrated on 13 November each year, providing an opportunity for the faithful to honor his memory and ask for his intercession. His life serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us of the enduring power of faith even in the face of persecution and adversity.