Blessed Josep Capdevila Portet

Blessed Josep Capdevila Portet, also known as Blessed Josep Capdevila i Portet, was a member of the Claretians, a religious community founded by Saint Anthony Mary Claret. He was born on August 2, 1890, in Vic, Barcelona, Spain. From a young age, Josep felt a strong calling to the priesthood and dedicated his life to serving God and his fellow human beings.

Entering the Claretians, Josep undertook rigorous theological studies and deepened his spiritual life. He showed great devotion to the teachings of the Catholic Church and exemplified the qualities of a dedicated priest-in-training. After completing his priestly formation, he was ordained a priest of the Claretian Order.

During the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, which erupted in 1936, religious persecution and violence were rampant, particularly targeting clergy members. Unfortunately, Josep Capdevila Portet became a victim of this persecution. On September 25, 1936, in Manlleu, Barcelona, he was martyred for his faith, becoming one of the 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs.

Blessed Josep Capdevila Portet's unwavering commitment to his vocation and his courage in face of persecution made him a symbol of faith and martyrdom. Recognizing his heroic and sacrificial death, Pope Francis issued a decree of martyrdom on December 21, 2016, declaring him venerable. A year later, on October 21, 2017, Pope Francis presided over his beatification ceremony at the Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. Archbishop Angelo Amato, the Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, performed the beatification rites, emphasizing the significance of Blessed Josep Capdevila Portet's life and sacrifice.

On the liturgical calendar, the feast days associated with Blessed Josep Capdevila Portet are September 25th, the date of his martyrdom, and February 1st, representing the collective celebration of the 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs.

As a beloved Claretian and martyr for the Catholic faith, Blessed Josep Capdevila Portet serves as an inspiration to all those who strive to live out their faith with courage, dedication, and self-sacrifice. His memory and intercession continue to inspire and guide believers, especially those facing persecution or hardships in their own lives.