Blessed Vicente Soler Munárriz

Biography

Blessed Vicente Soler Munárriz, also known as Father Vicente of Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, was born on 4 April 1867 in Malón, Zaragoza, Spain. He joined the Augustinian Recollects on 15 May 1883 while studying at the seminary in Tarragona, Spain. After his ordination on 31 May 1890, he was assigned to the Philippines where he began his missionary work.

Father Vicente was first sent to the island of Mindoro, where he dedicated himself to ministering to men who were hiding in caves or the woods around his village, Mamburao. The island was notorious as a hideout for criminals, but Father Vicente fearlessly brought the Gospel to those in need, providing spiritual comfort and guidance to the people in difficult circumstances.

Later, he was assigned to the parish of Taysan, Batangas, in the Philippines. It was during this time that the Philippine fight for independence from Spain was underway, and on 30 July 1898, Father Vicente found himself imprisoned because of his dedication to the people and his unwavering support for his homeland. Despite enduring abuse and neglect, he remained steadfast in his faith and continued to minister to his fellow prisoners.

Eventually, through the intervention of the Americans, Father Vicente was released in Manila on 27 February 1900. He resumed his parish ministry, serving the people for the next six years. He also took on the role of prior at the Augustinian mother-house of the Philippine province, further enriching the religious community.

In November 1906, Father Vicente returned to Spain and served in various ministries, including his position as the prior of the convent at Motril, Granada. During his time there, he revitalized the Augustinian brothers and the laity, which led to an increase in tertiaries, the Brotherhood of Consolation, and a Catholic farmer's union. Father Vicente became well-known for his preaching, and he sent his brothers out to preach in parishes throughout the diocese.

Apart from his pastoral work, Father Vicente was also an accomplished historian of the Augustinians. He authored several essays on their history, contributing to the knowledge and understanding of the Order.

Father Vicente served as the Augustinian provincial prior from 1915 to 1918 and again from 1924 to 1926, during which he continued to lead and inspire the religious community. In 1926, he was elected as the Prior-General of the Augustinian Recollects, assuming an influential role within the Order.

However, the Spanish Civil War brought about great persecution for Catholics, including Father Vicente. On 29 July 1936, he was imprisoned due to his faith and commitment to the Church. Despite his own imprisonment, he selflessly ministered to other prisoners, providing them with spiritual support and solace during their ordeal.

Tragically, on 15 August 1936, Father Vicente Soler Munárriz, along with 19 other prisoners, was shot at the cemetery in Motril, Granada. In his final moments, he showed immense courage and compassion by giving absolution and blessing to his fellow victims. In this act of martyrdom, he bore witness to his unwavering faith and dedication to his Christian vocation.

Blessed Vicente Soler Munárriz was venerated on 8 April 1997 by Pope John Paul II, who declared his martyrdom. On 7 March 1999, Pope John Paul II beatified him, recognizing his exemplary life and his ultimate sacrifice for the sake of Christ and His Church. His feast day is celebrated on 15 August each year, commemorating the day of his martyrdom.