Blessed Crescencia Valls Espí

Biography

Blessed Crescencia Valls Espí, also known as Crescensia Valls, was a devout lay woman hailing from the archdiocese of Valencia, Spain. She was born on June 6, 1863, in the town of Ontinyent, Valencia, to Joaquin Valls and Francisca Espí. At just one day old, Crescencia received the sacrament of baptism, marking the beginning of her lifelong faith journey.

Crescencia's upbringing was deeply influenced by her Catholic faith. As a young girl, she attended a school managed by the Sisters of Charity, where she received a solid education intertwined with spiritual formation. Growing up in a pious environment, she nourished her devotion to God and developed a strong sense of compassion for the less fortunate.

Throughout her life, Crescencia embraced numerous apostolates and associations that allowed her to serve both her community and the Church. She was an active member of the Daughters of Mary, the Apostleship of Prayer, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, Catholic Action, and eventually became a Carmelite tertiary, deepening her commitment to Carmelite spirituality while living as a lay person.

In addition to her spiritual endeavors, Crescencia employed her skills as a needlework artisan to support her family. She diligently worked and used her talents to contribute to their material well-being. However, her passion lay in caring for the sick and tending to the needs of the poor. Crescencia dedicated her time and efforts to organize charitable initiatives, ensuring that the destitute in her community received the necessary care and aid.

Tragically, during the persecutions of the Spanish Civil War, Crescencia and three of her sisters were imprisoned due to their unyielding commitment to their Catholic faith. Their unwavering devotion and refusal to renounce their beliefs led to their execution on the night of September 26, 1936. All four sisters were martyred for their faith, becoming shining examples of fidelity and courage in the face of adversity.

Initially buried in a common grave at the Canals Cemetery, Crescencia's remains were later exhumed after the Spanish Civil War and re-interred in her hometown of Ontinyent. The relics of this brave martyr were eventually enshrined in the Asunción de Nuestra Señora de Ontinyent church, where they continue to be venerated by the faithful.

In recognition of her holy life and martyrdom, Crescencia Valls Espí was beatified by Pope John Paul II on March 11, 2001. Her beatification served as a testament to her unwavering faith, selfless service, and ultimate sacrifice for the sake of Christ. On September 26th, she is commemorated as a blessed, while on September 22nd, Crescencia is remembered alongside other Martyrs of Valencia, paying tribute to her fidelity and love for the Church even in the face of persecution.