Blessed José Serrano Pastor

Biography

Blessed José Serrano Pastor, also known as José María Serrano Pastor, was a member of the Claretians religious congregation. He was born on 24 March 1899 in the town of Corella, located in the historical region of Navarra, Spain.

At the age of 16, José Serrano Pastor entered the congregation of the Claretians and professed his vows on 15 August 1915, dedicating his life to the service of God and the Church. His commitment and dedication to his vocation led him to be ordained as a priest on 25 May 1923.

During the turbulent times of the Spanish Civil War, in the early 1930s, the Catholic Church faced severe persecution. Blessed José Serrano Pastor, as a faithful follower of Christ, remained resolute in his commitment to his faith and his vows as a Claretian missionary.

Tragically, on 18 October 1936, in the town of Cervera, located in the province of Lleida, Spain, Blessed José Serrano Pastor was martyred for his unwavering devotion to the Catholic Church. He was one of the 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs who courageously laid down their lives during this period of religious persecution.

Recognizing the heroic sacrifice of Blessed José Serrano Pastor and the other Claretian Martyrs, Pope Francis issued a decree of martyrdom on 21 December 2016, granting them the title of Blessed. The beatification ceremony took place on 21 October 2017 at the Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. The ceremony was presided over by Archbishop Angelo Amato, representing the Holy See.

As a Claretian missionary and martyr, Blessed José Serrano Pastor serves as an inspiring model of faith, courage, and dedication to the Catholic Church. His feast day is celebrated on 18 October, the day of his martyrdom, as well as on 1 February, along with the other 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs.

Devotion to Blessed José Serrano Pastor continues to grow, as his life and martyrdom inspire believers to remain steadfast in their faith amidst challenges and persecution.