Beato Manuel Collellmir Sentíes

Blessed Manuel Collellmir Sentíes, also known as Brother Jordi of Santa Pau, was a Franciscan Capuchin friar who dedicated his life to the service of God. Born on June 7, 1917, in Sant Pau, Girona, Spain, he was raised in a devout Catholic family that nurtured his faith.

Inspired by the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi, Manuel joined the Franciscan Capuchin Order on August 29, 1935. His deep spirituality and commitment to acquiring knowledge led him to embrace a life of poverty, chastity, and obedience as a friar. He wholeheartedly lived the principles of his order, striving for humility and selflessness in his daily life.

However, Manuel's journey to making his solemn profession was tragically interrupted. During the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, he, along with many other Catholic religious and clergy, became a target of the Marxist regime. Sadly, he was captured and brutally murdered on July 29, 1936, in Barcelona, Spain.

The martyrdom of Blessed Manuel Collellmir Sentíes became a testament to his unwavering faith and devotion to God. His sacrificial death gained recognition for his holiness, and on June 5, 2015, Pope Francis decreed the veneration of Blessed Manuel, acknowledging his martyrdom. A few months later, on November 21, 2015, Pope Francis officially beatified him, bestowing upon him the title of "Blessed."

To honor the beatification of Blessed Manuel, a special ceremony was held at the cathedral of Santa Creu i Santa EulÖlia in Barcelona, Spain, presided by Cardinal Angelo Amato. This celebration served as a reminder of the courage and steadfastness of this young friar who laid down his life for his faith.

Blessed Manuel Collellmir Sentíes remains an inspirational figure for all those who seek to live a life of devotion and self-sacrifice. His example encourages us to stand firm in our faith even in the face of persecution and adversity. We give thanks for his witness and ask for his intercession as we strive to live out our own vocations in service to God and our fellow human beings.