Blessed Xavier Sorribas Dot

Biography

Blessed Xavier Sorribas Dot, also known as Xavier Sorribas Dot, was born on 7 November 1909 in Torelló, Barcelona, Spain. He was a member of the Claretians, a religious congregation founded by Saint Anthony Mary Claret. On 11 February 1926, he professed his vows in the congregation, dedicating his life to the service of God and others.

After several years of religious formation, Xavier was ordained a priest on 21 May 1932. He zealously carried out his pastoral duties, preaching the Gospel and ministering to the spiritual needs of the faithful. However, his life and ministry were cut short by the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War, a period of intense social and political conflict in Spain.

During the war, religious persecution targeted priests and religious individuals who were seen as threats to the ideological goals of certain factions. Tragically, Father Xavier Sorribas Dot became a victim of this persecution. On 26 July 1936, he was unjustly arrested and subsequently executed by being shot in the city of Lleida, Spain. His martyrdom is a testament to his unwavering faith and commitment to his vocation, even in the face of extreme adversity.

In recognition of his heroic virtues and martyrdom, Father Xavier Sorribas Dot was venerated by Pope Francis on 21 December 2016, when the decree of martyrdom was issued. This decree acknowledges that he died for the Catholic faith, willingly sacrificing his life as a witness to the Gospel. The beatification ceremony, which is a significant step towards sainthood, took place on 21 October 2017 at the Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. The ceremony was presided over by Archbishop Angelo Amato, who represented the Pope.

Blessed Xavier Sorribas Dot is one of the 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs, a group of courageous religious men who were also executed during the Spanish Civil War for their commitment to their faith. He is honored and remembered on his feast days, which are celebrated on 26 July and 1 February, in remembrance of the collective sacrifice of the Spanish Claretian Martyrs.

The life and martyrdom of Blessed Xavier Sorribas Dot continue to inspire people around the world to live their faith boldly and to persevere in the face of adversity. His selfless dedication to God and his unwavering commitment to proclaiming the Gospel serve as a shining example for all Catholics and a reminder of the power of faith in the most challenging times.