Blessed Victoria Arregui Guinea

Biography

Blessed Victoria Arregui Guinea was a devout Catholic nun who dedicated her life to serving the poor and disadvantaged. She was born on 19 December 1894 in Begoña, Vizcaya, Spain. From an early age, Victoria felt a strong calling to religious life and joined the Daughters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul, a religious congregation focused on providing assistance to those in need.

Victoria embraced her vocation wholeheartedly and became known for her compassion, humility, and unwavering faith. She found great joy in serving others and worked tirelessly to alleviate the suffering of those around her.

Tragically, during the turbulent times of the Spanish Civil War, Victoria's unwavering dedication to her faith led to her martyrdom. On 29 October 1936, she was cruelly executed in Gilet, Valencia, Spain, simply for her commitment to her religious beliefs and her work with the poor.

Victoria's martyrdom and selfless sacrifice have not been forgotten. Her beatification process began many years later, with her cause for canonization gaining momentum. On 27 June 2011, Pope Benedict XVI officially recognized her martyrdom, decreeing her as "Blessed." This recognition was a testament to her heroic virtue and the ultimate sacrifice she made for her faith.

Finally, on 13 October 2013, Pope Francis presided over the beatification ceremony of Blessed Victoria Arregui Guinea, elevating her to the status of "Blessed" within the Catholic Church. Her beatification serves as an inspiration to the faithful worldwide, reminding them of the immense courage and dedication displayed by those who remain steadfast in their beliefs, even in the face of persecution.

Blessed Victoria Arregui Guinea's feast day is celebrated on 29 October each year, honoring her martyrdom and her commitment to serving the poor and marginalized. Her life continues to inspire and guide both religious individuals and those who strive to make a positive difference in the world.