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Feast Day: September 8
Birth: March 8, 1898
Death: September 8, 1936
Blessed Josep Padrell Navarro, also known as "Josep Padró Navarro," was a Catholic priest who served in the archdiocese of Tarragona, Spain, during the early 20th century. He was born on 8th March 1898 in the town of La Pobla de Mafumet, located in the province of Tarragona.
From a young age, Josep displayed strong religious devotion and a calling to serve the Church. He responded to this calling by entering the seminary and pursuing his studies in theology. After completing his priestly formation, he was ordained as a priest and subsequently began ministering to the faithful in the archdiocese of Tarragona.
During the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, which erupted in 1936, Josep found himself caught amidst the social and political unrest that divided the nation. As a committed and zealous priest, he fearlessly preached the Gospel and provided spiritual guidance to his parishioners, particularly at a time when the Catholic Church faced persecution and hostility.
Unfortunately, his bravery and steadfastness in the face of persecution led to his arrest by anti-Catholic forces. On 8th September 1936, in the city of Barcelona, Josep Padrell Navarro was martyred for his unwavering faith and refusal to renounce his religious beliefs. He joined the ranks of many Catholic clergy and faithful who suffered and died for their faith during this tumultuous period in Spanish history.
Recognizing his martyrdom, Pope Benedict XVI issued a decree on 28th June 2012, declaring Josep Padrell Navarro's martyrdom and officially recognizing his heroic virtues. This decree paved the way for his beatification, which was celebrated on 13th October 2013 in Tarragona, Spain, by Pope Francis himself.
Blessed Josep Padrell Navarro stands as an inspiration of courage and faithfulness in the face of persecution. His martyrdom serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by many during the Spanish Civil War, and he continues to be venerated by the faithful, particularly on his feast day, which is celebrated on 8th September.