Saint Josemaria Escriva, born as one among six children to Jose and Dolores Escriva, was a notable figure who suffered the loss of three siblings during infancy. His father was a modest businessman, and following the collapse of his business in 1915, the family relocated to Logroño, Spain. It was here, in his early years, that Josemaria stumbled upon the imprint of a monk’s bare footprints in the snow. The image struck a chord with him, kindling a deep-seated desire to pursue a religious vocation.
Subsequently, Josemaria committed himself to studying for the priesthood in Logroño and Zaragoza. However, the death of his father in 1924 added an extra burden to his shoulders, as he had to balance his academic pursuits with the responsibility of supporting his family. Despite these challenges, Josemaria was ordained in Zaragoza on March 28, 1925.
Following a brief assignment to a rural parish, Josemaria relocated to Zaragoza, and eventually to Madrid in 1927 to study law. This period marked a profound spiritual transformation for him, culminating in the founding of Opus Dei on October 2, 1928. This pioneering move opened up a new pathway for believers to find sanctification in their everyday lives through their work, personal, familial, and social responsibilities. His subsequent years were consumed by intense studying at the University of Madrid, teaching to support his family, ministering to the poor and sick, and laying the groundwork for Opus Dei.
The outbreak of religious persecution during the Spanish Civil War forced Josemaria into hiding, from where he discreetly ministered to his congregation. He managed to escape to Burgos, Spain by traversing the treacherous Pyrenees. Once the war concluded in 1939, he resumed his academic pursuits in Madrid, ultimately earning a doctorate in law, and becoming a retreat master for the laity, priests, and religious orders.
On February 14, 1943, Josemaria established the Priestly Society of the Holy Cross, which was closely aligned with Opus Dei. Three years later, in 1946, he relocated to Rome, Italy, where he earned a doctorate in theology from the Lateran University. His accomplishments and dedication were recognized by the Vatican, which led to him becoming a consultant to two Vatican Congregations, an honorary member of the Pontifical Academy of Theology, and being named a prelate of honor by Pope Pius XII.
Following its approval by the Holy See on June 16, 1950, Josemaria dedicated himself to the expansion of Opus Dei. He frequently traveled across Europe and Latin America, and by the time of his death, the organization had established its presence across five continents, with over 60,000 members from 80 different nationalities. Today, Opus Dei boasts over 80,000 members, a majority of whom are laymen.
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