He continues to inspire individuals to live their lives to the fullest, dedicated to their faith and standing firm in the face of adversity.

Juan was born on November 28, 1861, in L’Olleria, Spain.  He was inspired by a deep sense of faith, even in his youth, and entered the seminary at the age of 16.

He was ordained and became a member of the Society of Jesus, the Jesuits.

After graduating from the university with a degree in philosophy, he taught moral theology and canon law in Torosa and at the Maximum College of Sarria in Barcelona.  Through his teachings, he influenced countless students, shaping their understanding of the Catholic faith with a strong moral foundation.

In 1918 he joined Cardinal Pietro Gasparri in Rome, compiled a 2-volume “Compendium Theologiae Moralis”, for the formation of Spanish speaking priests, and returned home 6 years later.

He remained a professor and became well known throughout Spain for his writings.  His commitment to intellectual pursuits were always intertwined with his unfailing love for God and his desire to bring others closer to their faith.

The Spanish Civil War began on July 17, 1936, when rebels launched an uprising in the country’s republic.  They won out, seized power, and instituted martial law, but still met strong opposition.  They sought Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy for aid who in turn provided military support.  The rebel’s army also included Moorish troops from Morocco who saw the fight as a crusade.  They saw Catholic clergy as obstacles to major reform and about 7,000 priests, monks, and nuns were killed, primarily in the 1st months of the revolt.

When the war broke out, he was arrested but released because of his old age.  He returned to his hometown but was interrogated shortly after arrival.  A month later he was formally arrested by the anti-Catholic Popular Front as 1 of 12 priests detained in the San Miguel prison.  He remained steadfast in his faith, refusing to renounce his beliefs or abandon his vocation.

They were kept in a room so crowded and cramped that they could scarcely sleep on the floor.  He was sentenced to death but developed complications from the harsh conditions and brutal treatment and died after suffering a stroke on December 29, 1936. 

His feast day is December 29.

For God’s Glory.