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Blessed Julian Villanueva Alza

Blessed

Martyr

Post-Congregation

Feast Day: 1 September; 1 February as one of the 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs

Born: 11 September 1869 in Villanueva, Navarra, Spain

Died: 1 September 1936 in Su, Lleida, Spain

Beatified: 21 October 2017 by Pope; beatification celebrated at the Basilica of Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain, presided by Archbishop Angelo Amato

Venerated: 21 December 2016 by Pope Francis (decree of martyrdom)

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Biography

Blessed Julian Villanueva Alza, also known as Julian Alza, was a member of the Claretians and a martyr of the Spanish Civil War. He was born on September 11, 1869, in the town of Villanueva, Navarra, Spain.

Julian Villanueva Alza entered the religious congregation of the Claretians and made his religious profession on April 11, 1898. He dedicated his life to the service of God and his fellow human beings, embracing a life of prayer, study, and missionary work.

During the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, Julian Alza was martyred for his faith on September 1, 1936, in Su, Lleida, Spain. He joined the ranks of the 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs, all of whom courageously endured persecution and shed their blood for their unwavering commitment to the Catholic faith.

The life and sacrifice of Julian Villanueva Alza were recognized and venerated by the Catholic Church. On December 21, 2016, Pope Francis issued a decree of martyrdom, acknowledging his supreme sacrifice for the sake of his faith. Julian Alza was beatified on October 21, 2017, by Pope Francis, in a ceremony held at the Basilica of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. The beatification ceremony was presided over by Archbishop Angelo Amato.

Blessed Julian Villanueva Alza is honored and remembered on two feast days. His primary feast day is celebrated on September 1, marking the anniversary of his martyrdom. Additionally, he is commemorated on February 1, along with the other 109 Spanish Claretian Martyrs.

As a member of the Claretians, Julian Alza represents the devotion, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to the Catholic faith embraced by the congregation. His life serves as an inspiration to those who strive to live a life of holiness and dedication to God.

Blessed Julian Villanueva Alza's beatification has brought awareness to his life and martyrdom, allowing the faithful to seek his intercession and be inspired by his example. His memory lives on within the Catholic Church, serving as a reminder of the courage and faithfulness of those who face persecution for their beliefs.