Blessed Marià Mullerat Soldevila

Biography

Blessed MariÖ Mullerat Soldevila, born on 24 March 1897 in Santa Coloma de Queralt, Tarragona, Spain, was a married layman in the archdiocese of Tarragona. He lived during a tumultuous period in Spanish history, known as the Spanish Civil War, which proved to be a time of great persecution for Catholics.

As a devout Catholic, MariÖ Mullerat Soldevila staunchly defended his faith and remained steadfast in his commitment to his family and community. He was a loving husband and father, who worked diligently to provide for his loved ones while also being actively involved in the life of the Church.

Sadly, the Spanish Civil War brought about great religious turmoil and MariÖ Mullerat Soldevila's unwavering faith made him a target of persecution. On 13 August 1936, in El Pla, near Arbeca, Lleida, Spain, he was martyred for his religious beliefs.

His martyrdom was a testament to his unwavering devotion to his faith and his refusal to renounce Catholicism. Despite facing great adversity during these tumultuous times, MariÖ Mullerat Soldevila's courage and steadfastness inspired others around him.

His martyrdom did not go unnoticed, and on 7 November 2018, Pope Francis recognized his heroic virtue, declaring him venerable. On 23 March 2019, MariÖ Mullerat Soldevila was beatified by Pope Francis at a special ceremony held at the Cathedral of Santa Tecla in Tarragona, Spain. The beatification recognition was presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu.

Blessed MariÖ Mullerat Soldevila's life and martyrdom serve as a powerful reminder of the unwavering faith and courage that can be found in the face of persecution. He is now considered a martyr of the Catholic Church, and his feast day is celebrated on 13 August each year.