Blessed Luis Belda Soriano De Montoya

Biography

Blessed Luis Belda Soriano De Montoya, also known as Luis Belda Soriano, was born on December 11, 1901, in Palma de Mallorca, Islas Baleares, Spain. He was baptized at the tender age of two days, receiving the sacrament that marked the beginning of his journey of faith. Growing up in a devout Catholic family, Luis was deeply influenced by his father's piety. His father played a significant role in organizing the 22nd International Eucharistic Congress, demonstrating a strong commitment to the Catholic faith. However, tragedy struck when Luis was just ten years old, as his father passed away, leaving a void in his young life.

Luis Belda Soriano pursued his education in law and eventually became a distinguished lawyer. Despite his professional success, he never lost sight of his deep faith and dedication to serving others. On August 10, 1925, Luis married Josefa Alberti Merello in Madrid, and together they embarked on a journey of love and shared commitment to their family and community.

The couple was blessed with six children, and with their growing family, they relocated to Almería, a city in southern Spain. It was in Almería that Luis and his family developed a close friendship with Bishop Fray Bernardo Martínez Noval, who became an influential figure in their lives.

Luis Belda Soriano actively participated in various Catholic organizations, serving as a member of the Catholic Association of Propagandists, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, and the Diocesan Press Council. His involvement in these groups allowed him to work tirelessly in support of stable marriages, fight crime, and vehemently oppose abortion.

Sadly, at the onset of the Spanish Civil War, Luis and his entire family found themselves victimized by the anti-Catholic forces that plagued the country. They were forced out of their home and left homeless on the streets. Luis himself was detained and held captive on the prison ship Captain Segarra for several weeks. Tragically, on the early morning of August 15, 1936, Luis Belda Soriano was executed, martyred for his unwavering faith and dedication to Catholicism.

His body, callously thrown into the sea, eventually washed up on Playa del Zapillo in Almería. Despite the brutal end he met, Luis Belda Soriano's legacy would endure, inspiring countless individuals with his steadfast commitment to faith and justice.

Recognizing his extraordinary sacrifice, Pope Francis proclaimed the veneration of Blessed Luis Belda Soriano on June 14, 2016, through a decree of martyrdom. On March 25, 2017, Pope Francis officially beatified Luis Belda Soriano in a poignant ceremony held at the Palacio de Exposiciones y Congresos de Aguadulce in Almería, Spain. The beatification ceremony was presided over by Cardinal Angelo Amato, paying tribute to the remarkable life and enduring legacy of this blessed martyr.

Blessed Luis Belda Soriano De Montoya remains an inspirational figure for all, exemplifying unwavering faith, selfless dedication, and the power of standing up for one's beliefs, even in the face of immense adversity.