Blessed Xavier Amargant Boada

Biography

Blessed Xavier Amargant Boada, also known as Xavier Boada Amargant, was a devout Catholic and a member of the Claretians, a religious congregation founded by Saint Anthony Mary Claret. He was born on 25 September 1916 in Sant Feliu de Pallarols, Girona, Spain, and devoted himself to his faith from an early age.

Xavier Amargant Boada professed his vows as a Claretian on 27 September 1932, committing himself to a life of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Despite his young age, he displayed a deep spiritual maturity and commitment to serving God and others.

Tragically, during the Spanish Civil War, which was a tumultuous period in Spain marked by intense religious persecution and conflict, Blessed Xavier Amargant Boada was martyred for his faith. On 26 July 1936, he was brutally shot in Lleida, a city in Catalonia, Spain, by forces opposed to the Catholic Church.

His martyrdom and unwavering commitment to his beliefs earned him a place among the 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs. Blessed Xavier Amargant Boada is honored and celebrated on their feast days, which are observed on 26 July and 1 February.

After several decades, on 21 December 2016, Pope Francis recognized the martyrdom of Blessed Xavier Amargant Boada and declared him "Venerable," acknowledging his heroic virtue and sacrifice. This decree was an important step towards his beatification process.

Finally, on 21 October 2017, Pope Francis presided over the beatification ceremony of Xavier Amargant Boada, which took place at the majestic Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. The Archbishop Angelo Amato, Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, joined the Holy Father in celebrating this joyful event.

Blessed Xavier Amargant Boada's life and martyrdom continue to inspire and serve as a testament to the enduring faith of believers during challenging times. He stands as an example of courage and devotion, steadfastly remaining true to his Catholic convictions till the very end.