Blessed Salvi Huix Miralpeix

Biography

Blessed Salvi Huix Miralpeix, also known as Salvio Huix Miralpéix, was born on 22 December 1877 in Santa Margarida de Vallors, Girona, Spain, into a pious and fairly wealthy family. He was recognized for his hard work and determination as a student and seminarian but struggled with controlling his temper.

On 19 September 1903, Salvi Huix Miralpeix was ordained as a priest in the diocese of Vic, Spain. For several years, he served as a rural parish priest, faithfully ministering to the people under his care. In 1907, he joined the Oratorians in Vich and continued his pastoral work in the city.

One of his significant contributions was the establishment of a confraternity for married men, dedicated to Saint Joseph. Recognizing the spiritual and parish life struggles faced by working men, who often drifted away from an active faith, Salvi aimed to revitalize their spiritual journey. This confraternity helped instill a sense of community and devotion among its members.

In addition to his pastoral activities, Salvi Huix Miralpeix also served as a theology teacher at the local seminary, imparting his knowledge and faith to future priests. His commitment to his vocation and the church caught the attention of the ecclesiastical authorities.

On 16 February 1928, Salvi Huix Miralpeix was appointed as the apostolic administrator of the impoverished diocese of Ibiza, Spain. The diocese had been without a bishop for 69 years, and his appointment brought much-needed leadership and spiritual guidance to the faithful in that region. Alongside this responsibility, he also held the title of titular bishop of Selymbria.

In 1931, when a anti–Catholic republic came into power in Spain, issuing laws targeting the Church and secularizing religious practices, Father Salvi remained steadfast in his work. He encouraged his flock not to abandon their faith, reminding them that this was yet another persecution that would eventually pass, as history had shown.

Father Salvi's unwavering commitment to his faith was tested further when he was appointed as the Bishop of Lleida, Spain, on 28 January 1935. It was during his tenure in this position that the Spanish Civil War broke out, leading to a wave of anti-Christian persecutions and violent massacres. Despite the dangers, he continued his pastoral duties and courageously ministered to his fellow Christians.

Tragically, Father Salvi Huix Miralpeix was arrested along with a group of other Christians. While in jail, he remained steadfast in his faith, offering spiritual guidance and support to his fellow prisoners. On the morning of 5 August 1936, Father Salvi was taken to a cemetery where they were to be executed. While facing imminent death, he requested to be the last to die so that he could pray for and bless each of the other victims as they passed away.

One of the militia men objected to his request and shot Salvi in his right arm, attempting to prevent his blessings. Undeterred, Father Salvi continued his ministry with his left hand. Finally, he was shot in the head, sealing his martyrdom.

Blessed Salvi Huix Miralpeix's life and sacrificial death bear witness to his unwavering commitment to his faith and his love for his fellow Christians. His courageous acts of spiritual guidance and ministry even in the face of severe persecution exemplify his deep love for God and his dedication to serving others.

On 13 October 2013, Pope Francis beatified Father Salvi Huix Miralpeix, recognizing his martyrdom and his exceptional witness to the Christian faith. His feast days are celebrated on 5 August and 6 November on some calendars. Pope Benedict XVI, on 27 June 2011, declared him venerable, further acknowledging his heroic virtues and readiness to sacrifice his life for his faith.