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Feast Day: July 30
Birth: December 2, 1909
Death: July 1, 30
Blessed SebastiÖ Llorens Telarroja was a devout and studious layman farm worker born on 2 December 1909 in Tordera, Barcelona, Spain. Known for his mechanical skills, SebastiÖ was a respected figure in the diocese of Girona, Spain, where he lived and worked.
SebastiÖ Llorens Telarroja received his education at the prestigious Colegio Santa María de Blanes in Spain, which was run by the religious congregation known as the Sons of the Holy Family. During his time at the college, he honed his intellectual and spiritual abilities, becoming deeply involved in Catholic Action, an organization that aimed to promote Catholic values and teachings in society.
A faithful member of the Federation of Young Christians in Catalonia, SebastiÖ actively participated in their activities and demonstrated a strong commitment to their ideals. As a Franciscan tertiary, he embraced a life of simplicity and charity, following the footsteps of Saint Francis of Assisi. SebastiÖ was known for his great love and dedication to Eucharistic adoration, finding solace and strength in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament. Furthermore, he was known for his profound devotion to Our Lady of Vilar, a cherished Marian image in the region of Blanes.
During the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, when anti-Catholic forces seemed to be approaching Blanes, SebastiÖ made a brave and selfless decision. Recognizing the threat posed to their cherished religious heritage and the ancient image of the Virgin of Vilar, the patroness of Blanes, he took it upon himself to hide and preserve the statue. SebastiÖ's actions exemplified his unwavering faith and dedication, as he risked his own safety to safeguard their religious icon from destruction.
Unfortunately, SebastiÖ's commitment to his faith and his brave actions did not go unnoticed. In the early morning of 30 July 1936, he was martyred on the highway outside Blanes, Girona, Spain. His life was unjustly cut short due to the ongoing religious persecution of the time. SebastiÖ was buried in the town cemetery of Blanes, leaving behind a legacy of faith, courage, and devotion.
Recognizing his profound witness to the Christian faith, Pope Benedict XVI declared SebastiÖ Llorens Telarroja as venerable on 10 May 2012, affirming his heroic virtue. Later, on 13 October 2013, Pope Francis beatified him, recognizing his martyrdom and his ultimate sacrifice for the sake of his beliefs.
Today, the life of Blessed SebastiÖ Llorens Telarroja stands as an inspiration to all those who seek to live their faith with courage and dedication, even in the face of adversity and persecution. His example serves as a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the strength it provides in times of trial.