Blessed Segimon Sagalés Vilá

Biography

Blessed Segimon Sagalés Vilá, also known as Sigismund or Segismundo, was a lay brother in the Sons of the Holy Family. He was born on May 1, 1888, in Vic, Barcelona, Spain.

Segimon devoted his life to serving others and became a kindergarten teacher in Barcelona. He had a profound love for his students and dedicated himself to their education and well-being. However, his life took a tragic turn when he was diagnosed with a cancerous tumor on his neck.

Despite his own suffering, Segimon remained faithful to his vocation and continued his service to God and others. He found solace in his deep faith and relied on prayer and devotion to Saint Jose Manyanet, the founder of the Sons of the Holy Family.

In a remarkable act of devotion and love, Segimon helped recover the remains of Saint Jose Manyanet when they were unearthed for a Christian burial. This act exemplified his unwavering commitment to the Catholic faith and his desire to honor one of its great saints.

Unfortunately, Segimon's life was cut short by the brutal persecutions of the Spanish Civil War. During this time of religious turmoil, he was arrested for his faith and ultimately martyred for his beliefs. On September 8, 1936, he was murdered on a road outside M√∫nter, Barcelona, Spain.

Segimon's body was initially interred in the parish and later re-interred in the cemetery chapel of Saint Joseph parish in Manyanet, Barcelona, Spain in 2007. His final resting place became a place of pilgrimage for many faithful who sought his intercession.

In recognition of his martyrdom and remarkable witness to the Gospel, Segimon was venerated on May 10, 2012, by Pope Benedict XVI through a decree of martyrdom. Subsequently, on October 13, 2013, Pope Francis beatified him, affirming Segimon's sanctity and granting him the title of Blessed.

The inspiring life of Blessed Segimon Sagalés Vilá serves as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the sacrificial love that lies at the heart of Christianity. His courage and dedication continue to inspire and guide countless individuals in their spiritual journey.