Blessed Pere Tarrés I Claret

Biography

Blessed Joan Roig I Diggle, born on 12 May 1917 in Barcelona, Spain, was a devout Catholic young man who lived during a turbulent period in Spanish history. He was the son of Ramón Roig Fuente and Maud Diggle Puckering, born into a humble and impoverished family.

Joan received a proper education under the guidance of the La Salle Brothers, and later, the Piarists. During his studies, he became a disciple of two blessed individuals, Blessed Ignasi Casanovas Perramón and Blessed Francisco Carceller Galindo, who had a profound impact on his spiritual formation.

At a young age, Joan's family moved to El Masnou, Spain, in search of better employment opportunities. Even while attending school, Joan worked diligently as a store clerk and on a factory floor to support his family financially. However, despite his responsibilities, he remained dedicated to his faith and his involvement in the Federación de Jóvenes Cristianos de Cataluña (Federation of Young Christians of Catalonia) in El Masnou.

Joan's commitment and devotion to his faith led him to be entrusted with the responsibility of running a branch of the federation that catered to children under the age of 14. His tireless efforts to promote the Christian values among the youth earned him a reputation for his piety and dedication.

A defining aspect of Joan's spiritual life was his deep connection with the Eucharist. He would spend countless hours in Eucharistic Adoration, experiencing a profound closeness to Christ. Additionally, Joan was a close friend of Blessed Pere Tarrés i Claret and became known for his kindness, compassion, and selflessness.

In a time of great persecution and religious turmoil, the Spanish Civil War broke out. Joan, unwavering in his faith, was targeted by the anti-Christian militia for his unwavering commitment to Catholicism. When these soldiers came to arrest him, Joan, quick-thinking and devoted to the Eucharist, consumed the sacred Hosts to prevent desecration. He then bid farewell to his mother, embraced her one final time, and bravely surrendered to his captors.

Despite his dire circumstances, Joan did not waiver in his faith or his commitment to his mission. He fearlessly continued to preach the Gospel and forgive his captors, even in the face of imminent death. Sadly, during the night of 11 to 12 September 1936, Joan was shot multiple times in the cemetery of Sant Coloma de Gramenet, Barcelona. He died as a martyr, giving up his life for his Catholic beliefs.

Joan Roig I Diggle was buried in a chapel in the parish of San Pere de Masnou in Catalonia, Spain. His courageous testimony, unwavering faith, and ultimate sacrifice have made him a revered figure within the Catholic Church. Recognizing his martyrdom and the holiness of his life, Pope Francis declared Joan Roig I Diggle as Blessed on 7 November 2020, in a beatification ceremony held in the Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain.

The life and legacy of Blessed Joan Roig I Diggle serve as an inspiration to all Christians, encouraging fidelity to one's faith, forgiveness, and dedication to the service of others, even in the face of immense adversity.