Saint Joaquín Royo Pérez

Biography

Saint Joaquín Royo Pérez, also known as Joachim Royo Pérez, was born in 1691 in Teruel, Spain. He joined the Dominicans in Valencia in 1709 and was ordained a priest. In 1712, Father Joaquín Royo Pérez was sent as a missionary to the Philippines, where he devoted himself to the evangelization of the indigenous people. His deep dedication and commitment to spreading the Catholic faith led him to be known as a zealous and effective missionary. After his work in the Philippines, Father Joaquín was sent to China in 1715, together with Saint Peter Sanz. The two saints worked together to bring Christianity to the people of China. Despite facing great challenges and opposition, they tirelessly preached the Gospel and ministered to the spiritual needs of the Chinese communities they encountered. During the time of their mission, the Chinese government initiated persecutions against Christians, including missionaries and converts to the faith. To avoid capture and persecution, Saint Joaquín and his companion, Saint Peter Sanz, would hide during the day in tombs or secret rooms, emerging only at night to serve their parishioners. In 1746, Saint Joaquín was finally apprehended and imprisoned for his unwavering faith. He endured two grueling years of imprisonment, where he faced intense physical and emotional suffering. Despite the hardships, he remained steadfast in his commitment to Christ and the Church. On the evening of October 28, 1748, Saint Joaquín Royo Pérez was tortured and strangled to death in his prison cell in Fu-tsheu, China. His martyrdom was a testament to his unwavering faith and his willingness to sacrifice his life for the sake of the Gospel. After his death, Saint Joaquín's relics were enshrined in the church of Saint Dominic in Manila, Philippines. His holy life and ultimate sacrifice were recognized by the Catholic Church, and on January 6, 1893, Pope Leo XIII issued a decree of martyrdom, acknowledging his heroic virtue. On May 14, 1893, Pope Leo XIII beatified Saint Joaquín Royo Pérez, officially declaring him blessed. Finally, on October 1, 2000, Pope John Paul II canonized him, recognizing him as a saint of the Catholic Church. As a courageous missionary, martyr, and devoted priest, Saint Joaquín Royo Pérez serves as an inspiration to all Christians, reminding us of the importance of faith, perseverance, and selflessness in the face of adversity.