Martyrs of Barcelona

Biography

The Martyrs of Barcelona, also known as the Seven Martyrs of Barcelona, were a group of courageous Christians who were martyred in two separate incidents on the same day during the Spanish Civil War. They were individuals from different walks of life, including lay people, as well as members of two religious congregations: the Missionaries of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary and the Franciscan Daughters of Mercy. Catalina Caldés Socías was one of the brave individuals who embraced her faith in the face of persecution. Born on December 31, 1863, in Barcelona, Spain, she dedicated her life to serving the Lord and His people. As a member of the Missionaries of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, Catalina's deep spirituality and commitment to her religious community were unmatched. She lived a life rooted in love and compassion, exemplifying the virtues of her religious order. Francesc Mayol Oliver, born on April 29, 1897, in Mallorca, Spain, also joined the Missionaries of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. He was ordained a priest and devoted himself to spreading the message of God's love and mercy. Francesc's humility, kindness, and dedication to the spiritual well-being of others marked his life as a selfless servant of God. Miquel Pons Ramis, born on October 2, 1903, in Pollença, Spain, was another member of the Missionaries of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Despite his young age, Miquel exhibited an unwavering faith and a deep commitment to his vocation. He devoted himself to his religious congregation and carried out his duties with utmost dedication and joy. Miquela Rul·Làn Ribot was a laywoman and an active member of the Catholic Church in Barcelona. Her strong faith and dedication to serving others were evident in her daily life. Miquela, born on September 27, 1908, in Mataró, Spain, tirelessly shared the love of Christ with those around her, offering comfort and support to those in need. Pau Noguera Trías, another layman, was born on January 16, 1903, in Barcelona, Spain. Despite not being a member of a religious congregation, Pau lived his faith with great fervor and devotion. His commitment to living a virtuous life and proclaiming the Gospel made him an inspiration to many. Prudència Canyelles Ginestà de Aguadé, born on July 30, 1891, in Sant Quirze del Vallès, Spain, also belonged to the Missionaries of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. As a member of this religious congregation, Prudència dedicated her life to serving God and her fellow human beings. She found great joy in spreading the teachings of Christ and tending to the needs of others. Simó Reynés Solivellas, born on September 1, 1897, in Manacor, Spain, was a layman who joined the Franciscan Daughters of Mercy, committing himself to a life of service to God and his community. Simó lived a life of simplicity, poverty, and humility, imitating the example of St. Francis of Assisi. On July 23, 1936, these seven courageous Christians were martyred, giving their lives as a testimony to their unwavering faith and commitment to Christ. Their deaths were a result of the brutal violence and religious persecution that prevailed during the Spanish Civil War. Recognizing the heroic virtue and sacrificial witness of the Martyrs of Barcelona, Pope Benedict XVI declared them venerable on June 26, 2006, and beatified them on October 28, 2007. Though they may not have specific patronages assigned to them, their lives and ultimate sacrifice serve as an inspiration and example for all Christians, as they faithfully followed Christ until the end, demonstrating unwavering love, courage, and fidelity to the Gospel. We honor and remember the Martyrs of Barcelona's steadfastness and commitment, seeking their intercession and guidance in our own lives.