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Feast Day: August 25
Birth: June 4, 1884
Death: August 25, 1936
Blessed SebastiÖ Sonet Romeu, also known as Father Zacaries of Lloren√ß de Penedès, was a Franciscan Capuchin and a martyr of the Spanish Civil War. He was born on 4 June 1884 in Lloren√ß de Penedès, Barcelona, Spain.
SebastiÖ Sonet Romeu entered the religious life, joining the Capuchin Order of the Franciscans, and made his solemn profession on 2 August 1903. His dedication and commitment to his faith were evident throughout his life. After years of formation, he was ordained a priest on 31 March 1907, embarking on a ministry marked by compassion, love, and selfless service to God and his fellow human beings.
During the turbulent years of the Spanish Civil War, Father Zacaries found himself caught in the crossfires of political factions. As a staunch defender of the values and teachings of the Catholic Church, he became a target of the Marxists who sought to suppress religious freedom and eliminate any opposition to their ideology.
On 25 August 1936, Father Zacaries was brutally murdered in Barcelona, Spain by the Marxists. His life was tragically cut short, but his martyrdom is a testament to his unwavering faith and commitment to his vocation.
Blessed SebastiÖ Sonet Romeu was officially recognized for his martyrdom and heroic virtue on 5 June 2015 by Pope Francis, who issued a decree declaring him venerable. Later, on 21 November 2015, Pope Francis beatified him during a solemn ceremony held at the cathedral of Santa Creu i Santa EulÖlia in Barcelona. The beatification ceremony was presided over by Cardinal Angelo Amato, representing the Pope.
Today, Blessed SebastiÖ Sonet Romeu is celebrated and venerated as a martyr of the Spanish Civil War, with his feast day occurring on 25 August each year. His life serves as an inspiration to all, a reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals in defense of their faith and the timeless values of justice, love, and peace.