Discover a Life of Purpose and Meaning with St. Josemaria Escriva: 20 Facts on His Life to Everyday Sainthood

St. Josemaria Escriva is widely known for his lifelong commitment to spreading the message of God’s love and mercy through his teachings and writings. St. Josemaria Escriva was a Spanish Roman Catholic priest and the founder of Opus Dei, a Catholic institution devoted to promoting holiness in everyday life. His teachings have inspired millions of people around the world to deepen their faith and live a life of holiness.

In this blog post, we will delve into the life of St. Josemaria Escriva, exploring his background, beliefs, and contributions to the Church. Join me on this journey of discovery and inspiration and be changed forever by the remarkable life of this modern-day saint.

What is St. Josemaria Known for?

St. Josemaria Escriva is primarily known for his contributions to the Catholic Church through his writings, teachings, and the founding of Opus Dei. He was born in Barbastro, Spain, on January 9, 1902, and was ordained a priest in 1925. Throughout his life, he emphasized the importance of finding God in the ordinary circumstances of life and encouraged people to strive for holiness in their daily activities. His teachings were based on the belief that everyone has a vocation to holiness, and that this can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and a constant effort to improve oneself.

One of his most famous works is “The Way,” a collection of spiritual reflections and advice that has sold millions of copies worldwide. In this book, St. Josemaria emphasizes the importance of prayer, humility, and perseverance in the pursuit of holiness. He also stresses the need for people to seek God in their daily lives, no matter how mundane or routine their activities may seem.

Another important contribution that St. Josemaria made to the Catholic Church was the founding of Opus Dei. This institution, which he established in 1928, seeks to promote holiness in everyday life by encouraging people to integrate their faith into their work, family life, and social relationships. Today, Opus Dei has more than 90,000 members in more than 90 countries around the world.

Where is St. Josemaria Escriva from?

St. Josemaria Escriva was born in Barbastro, Spain, in 1902. His family was relatively affluent, and he grew up in a comfortable environment. From an early age, he showed an interest in the Catholic faith and was drawn to the idea of becoming a priest. He was ordained in 1925, at the age of 23, and spent the next several years serving as a parish priest in different parts of Spain.

During his time as a priest, St. Josemaria became increasingly concerned about the spiritual well-being of his parishioners. He was struck by the fact that many people seemed to have lost their sense of faith and purpose, and he felt a deep desire to help them rediscover their love for God. This led him to begin developing his ideas about finding God in everyday life and the importance of personal holiness.

In 1928, St. Josemaria founded Opus Dei, which would eventually become one of the most influential Catholic institutions of the 20th century. He saw this organization as a way of helping people to integrate their faith into their daily lives and to strive for holiness in everything they did. Over the years, Opus Dei has grown to become a global organization with a presence in more than 90 countries around the world.

St. Josemaria Escriva was a devoted and passionate Catholic priest who dedicated his life to promoting holiness and encouraging people to find God in everyday life. His teachings and writings have inspired millions of people around the world to deepen their faith and live a life of devotion and service to others. Through his work with Opus Dei, he helped to create a global community of people who are committed to living out their faith

Where Did Josemaria Escriva Live?

During his lifetime, St. Josemaria Escriva lived and traveled extensively throughout Europe and Latin America. After he was ordained a priest in 1925, he served as a parish priest in various parts of Spain, including Zaragoza and Logroño. During this time, he began developing his ideas about finding God in everyday life and the importance of personal holiness.

In 1928, St. Josemaria founded Opus Dei, a Catholic institution devoted to promoting holiness in everyday life. He saw this organization as a way of helping people to integrate their faith into their daily lives and to strive for holiness in everything they did.

Over the years, St. Josemaria traveled extensively throughout Europe and Latin America, preaching and spreading the message of God’s love and mercy. He was a prolific writer, and his works have been translated into dozens of languages and have sold millions of copies around the world.

In 1975, St. Josemaria died of heart failure while visiting Rome. He was canonized as a saint by Pope John Paul II in 2002, in recognition of his lifelong commitment to serving others and promoting holiness in everyday life.

St. Josemaria Escriva was a remarkable Catholic priest and spiritual leader who dedicated his life to serving others and spreading the message of God’s love and mercy. He was born in Spain in 1902 and spent much of his life traveling and preaching to people around the world. Through his writings, teachings, and the founding of Opus Dei, he inspired millions of people to deepen their faith and live a life of devotion and service to others.

What is the Faith of St. Josemaria?

St. Josemaria Escriva’s faith was grounded in a deep and abiding love for Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church. He believed that every person was called to holiness, and that this holiness could be achieved through a life of prayer, service, and devotion to God. He also stressed the importance of finding God in everyday life, and encouraged people to look for the presence of God in the world around them.

One of the central tenets of St. Josemaria’s faith was the idea that every person was called to be a saint. He believed that holiness was not just for priests and religious, but for everyone, regardless of their occupation or station in life. This message resonated with people around the world, and helped to inspire a new wave of devotion to the Catholic faith.

What is Praying the Stations of the Cross with St. Josemaria Escriva?

Praying the Stations of the Cross is a popular Catholic devotion that involves meditating on the fourteen events that occurred during Jesus’ passion and death. St. Josemaria Escriva was a strong advocate of this devotion, and helped to popularize it around the world. He believed that praying the Stations of the Cross was a powerful way to connect with the suffering of Jesus, and to deepen one’s own spiritual life.

When praying the Stations of the Cross with St. Josemaria Escriva, one can use his guidebook titled “The Way of the Cross.” This guidebook includes prayers and reflections for each of the fourteen stations, as well as additional prayers and reflections for before and after the devotion. St. Josemaria’s reflections focus on the love and mercy of God, and the importance of imitating Christ’s example of self-sacrifice and humility.

Praying the Stations of the Cross with St. Josemaria Escriva is a powerful way to deepen one’s own faith and devotion to God. It allows us to connect with the suffering of Christ in a meaningful way, and to reflect on the importance of humility, service, and sacrifice in our own lives. Through this devotion, we can learn to see the world through the eyes of Christ, and to love and serve others as he did.

St. Josemaria Escriva was a man of deep faith and unwavering devotion to the Catholic Church. His teachings continue to inspire people around the world to deepen their own spiritual lives and to strive for holiness in everyday life. Praying the Stations of the Cross with St. Josemaria Escriva is a powerful way to connect with his message of love and mercy, and to deepen our own faith in God.

What is Rosary by Josemaria Escriva Quotes?

“Rosary by Josemaria Escriva” is a collection of reflections and meditations on the Catholic Rosary, a series of prayers that honor the life of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary. The book contains quotes and passages that offer insight into the deeper meanings of the Rosary prayers and how they can deepen our faith and spirituality.

St. Josemaria’s quotes in “Rosary by Josemaria Escriva” offer a unique perspective on the Rosary and its significance in the life of a Catholic. He stresses the importance of the Rosary as a tool for contemplation and meditation, encouraging readers to focus on the mysteries of Christ’s life as they pray. His insights into the power of prayer and the role of Mary in the Catholic faith are particularly inspiring.

One of his most famous quotes from the book is…

“Love our Lady. And she will obtain abundant grace to help you conquer in your daily struggle.”

This quote encapsulates the essence of St. Josemaria’s devotion to Mary and his belief in the power of prayer.

How Old was Josemaria when He Died?

St. Josemaria Escriva died on June 26, 1975, at the age of 73. He had dedicated his life to serving God and spreading the message of Christ’s love and mercy to people around the world, and his death was mourned by millions of people.

Despite his passing, St. Josemaria’s legacy lives on today through the work of Opus Dei and the continued popularity of his writings. His teachings on the importance of holiness, prayer, and service continue to inspire people of all ages and backgrounds, and his devotion to Mary and the Rosary serves as a powerful example of Catholic faith and spirituality.

Where is Josemaria Escriva Buried?

St. Josemaria Escriva’s final resting place is located at the Prelatic Church of Our Lady of Peace in Rome, Italy. The church is a significant location for Opus Dei, as it is the seat of the Prelature of Opus Dei and serves as the official church of Opus Dei in Rome. St. Josemaria was laid to rest in the crypt of the church following his death in 1975.

The church is located in the residential district of Balduina in Rome and is a popular destination for visitors to Rome who wish to pay their respects to St. Josemaria. The church is open to the public and welcomes visitors who wish to attend Mass or explore the church’s many works of art and religious relics.

What Other Saints are There to See in Italy?

Italy is home to many saints, each with their own fascinating story and rich cultural significance. For visitors to Italy, there are several saints and holy sites that are worth exploring. Some of the most popular saints and holy sites include:

1. St. Peter’s Basilica: Located in Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the most important churches in the world and is considered the burial site of St. Peter, the first pope.
2. St. Francis of Assisi: Located in the town of Assisi, St. Francis is one of the most beloved saints in the Catholic Church and is known for his love of nature and devotion to the poor.
3. St. Catherine of Siena: Born in Siena, Italy, St. Catherine was a mystic, philosopher, and political activist who is revered for her spiritual writings and her dedication to the Catholic Church.
4. St. Padre Pio: Born in Pietrelcina, Italy, St. Padre Pio is known for his stigmata and his devotion to prayer and healing. His shrine in San Giovanni Rotondo attracts millions of visitors each year.
5. St. Agatha: Born in Catania, Italy, St. Agatha is the patron saint of Catania and is revered for her courage and devotion to the Catholic faith.

St. Josemaria Escriva’s final resting place at the Prelatic Church of Our Lady of Peace in Rome is a popular destination for visitors to Rome who wish to pay their respects to this beloved saint. Additionally, Italy is home to many other saints and holy sites, each with their own fascinating history and cultural significance. Whether you’re a Catholic pilgrim or simply interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Italy, there is much to see and discover in this beautiful country.

Making Travel Arrangements for My Pilgrimage to See St. Josemaria Escriva

If you are a devout Catholic, there is no better way to deepen your faith than to embark on a pilgrimage to the resting place of a revered saint. For many Catholics, St. Josemaria Escriva is one such saint who continues to inspire and guide believers through his teachings and writings. In this article, we’ll explore how to make travel arrangements for a pilgrimage to see St. Josemaria Escriva and discuss his patronage.

Before embarking on a pilgrimage to see St. Josemaria Escriva, it is essential to make travel arrangements. Here are some tips to help you plan your trip:

1. Research the best time to visit: Rome can be extremely hot in the summer, so it’s best to plan your visit for the spring or fall when the weather is milder.
2. Book your accommodations: Rome has many hotels and hostels, but it’s best to book your accommodations in advance to ensure you have a comfortable and safe place to stay.
3. Plan your transportation: Rome has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains. You can also consider hiring a private driver or booking a tour.
4. Make arrangements to attend Mass: Attending Mass at the Prelatic Church of Our Lady of Peace is a must-do for pilgrims visiting St. Josemaria Escriva’s resting place. Plan your visit around the Mass schedule, and arrive early to secure a seat.
5. Consider a guided tour: A guided tour can provide you with valuable insights into St. Josemaria Escriva’s life and teachings. Many tour operators offer specialized tours focused on Catholic pilgrimage sites in Rome.

A pilgrimage to see St. Josemaria Escriva can be a transformative experience for believers seeking to deepen their faith and connect with a revered Catholic saint. By planning your trip in advance and understanding St. Josemaria Escriva’s patronage, you can make the most of your journey and return home with a renewed sense of spiritual purpose.

I think that traveling will help you grow spiritually, just like it has for me.

Following in the footsteps of the final Korean saints before they were put to death for their religion, visiting the Vatican and the Holy Land. The turning points in our lives occur when we understand our purpose and what God has in store for us.

I’ve traveled extensively. Among the nations I’ve traveled to are America, Scotland, Korea, Hong Kong, Macau, The Vatican, Switzerland, France, Milan, and all of Israel. I’ll be in Turkey shortly, too.

I am knowledgeable about every aspect of travel. I’ve put together a list of short resources as a consequence to help you get ready for your journey.

1. Find cheap flights for your journey HERE 
2. A Car Rental
3. Taxi Drivers
4. Bus or Train Tickets
5. Choose the Perfect Hotel for Your Trip HERE
6. Fun Events for Your Journey
7. Travel Insurance
8. Phone for Traveling

Time to pack your bags! 🙂

What is Josemaría Escrivá the patron saint of?

St. Josemaria Escriva is the patron saint of several causes, including:

1. The sick: St. Josemaria Escriva had a deep compassion for the sick and suffering, and he believed in the healing power of prayer.
2. The poor: St. Josemaria Escriva was devoted to helping the poor and marginalized, and he believed that everyone had the potential to lead a holy life, regardless of their circumstances.
3. Families: St. Josemaria Escriva emphasized the importance of the family unit and believed that a strong family was the foundation of a healthy society.
4. Workers: St. Josemaria Escriva was a champion of the dignity of work and believed that every job, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, had value in God’s eyes.

Saint Josemaría Escrivá is the patron saint of several things, including Catholic university students, the sick, and those who are seeking spiritual direction. He is also the patron saint of several countries, including Spain, Argentina, Colombia, Guatemala, Mexico, and Peru. Additionally, he is considered the patron saint of several professions, including businesspeople, journalists, and engineers. Many people look to St. Josemaría Escrivá for guidance and support in their daily lives, and they find comfort in his teachings.

Why is St. Josemaría Escrivá patron saint of diabetes?

St. Josemaría Escrivá is the patron saint of diabetes because he suffered from the disease himself. He was diagnosed with diabetes in 1954 and had to manage the condition for the rest of his life. He was known for his devotion to his faith and his commitment to helping others, even in the face of his own health challenges. Many people who suffer from diabetes find comfort in turning to St. Josemaría Escrivá for guidance and support. They see him as a source of inspiration and hope, and they find comfort in the fact that he understands the challenges that they face on a daily basis.

St. Josemaría Escrivá was a remarkable individual who left a lasting impact on the world. He is remembered for his devotion to his faith, his commitment to helping others, and his compassion for those who were struggling. He is a source of inspiration and hope for millions of people around the world, and his legacy continues to be celebrated today. Whether you are seeking spiritual guidance, struggling with a health condition like diabetes, or simply looking for inspiration in your daily life, St. Josemaría Escrivá can offer you the guidance and support that you need.

What is Opus Dei beliefs?

Opus Dei is a Catholic organization that was founded in 1928 by St. Josemaría Escrivá. The organization’s primary goal is to help people find God in their daily lives and to promote the idea of universal sanctity. Opus Dei teaches that all people are called to holiness and that they can achieve this by following the teachings of the Catholic Church and by dedicating their work and everyday activities to God.

Opus Dei believes in the importance of work and the sanctification of ordinary life. The organization teaches that work is a way of serving God and that by doing one’s job well, one can bring glory to God. Opus Dei also emphasizes the importance of personal prayer, spiritual direction, and penance as ways of deepening one’s relationship with God.

What did Pope Francis say about Opus Dei?

Pope Francis has spoken positively about Opus Dei on several occasions. In 2014, he praised the organization’s focus on the sanctification of ordinary life and the importance of promoting the dignity of all people, regardless of their social status. He has also emphasized the importance of evangelization and reaching out to those who are marginalized, which is a key part of Opus Dei’s mission.

Pope Francis has also praised the organization’s emphasis on personal responsibility and the importance of living a virtuous life. He has encouraged members of Opus Dei to be active in their communities and to work for the common good.

Opus Dei is a Catholic organization that teaches the importance of finding God in everyday life and promoting the idea of universal sanctity. The organization believes in the importance of work and personal responsibility, and it emphasizes the importance of prayer, spiritual direction, and penance. Pope Francis has spoken positively about Opus Dei and praised the organization’s focus on evangelization and promoting the dignity of all people. If you are looking for guidance and support in your spiritual journey, Opus Dei may be a good fit for you.

When did Josemaria become a saint?

St. Josemaría Escrivá was canonized as a saint by Pope John Paul II on October 6, 2002. This was a momentous occasion for the members of Opus Dei, the organization that St. Josemaría founded, as well as for Catholics around the world. The canonization process typically takes several years, and it involves a thorough investigation into the life, writings, and teachings of the person being considered for sainthood. In the case of St. Josemaría, the process took more than 25 years.

What can we learn about St. Josemaria?

St. Josemaría Escrivá was a remarkable man who devoted his life to helping others find God in their everyday lives. He was born in Barbastro, Spain in 1902 and was the second of six children. He was ordained a priest in 1925 and went on to found Opus Dei, an organization that promotes the idea of universal sanctity and the sanctification of work and everyday activities.

St. Josemaría was known for his humility, simplicity, and love for God. He believed that every person, regardless of their station in life, was called to holiness and that they could achieve this by dedicating their work and everyday activities to God. He wrote extensively on the importance of prayer, spiritual direction, and personal responsibility, and his teachings continue to inspire millions of people around the world.

St. Josemaría faced many challenges and setbacks throughout his life, including the Spanish Civil War and persecution from the government. However, he remained steadfast in his faith and his commitment to serving God and others. He died in 1975, but his legacy lives on through the work of Opus Dei and the many people who have been inspired by his teachings.

St. Josemaría Escrivá was a remarkable man whose life and teachings continue to inspire millions of people around the world. He was a champion of the idea of universal sanctity and the sanctification of work and everyday activities, and he believed that every person was called to holiness. His humility, simplicity, and love for God continue to be an example for us all.

What is the prayer for the intercession of St Josemaria Escriva?

St. Josemaria Escriva, who devoted his life to the service of God and the salvation of souls, is a beloved saint and intercessor in the Catholic faith. Many faithful believers seek his intercession to help them with their daily struggles and to guide them on their journey towards holiness. One way to invoke his intercession is through prayer.

The prayer for the intercession of St Josemaria Escriva is a powerful supplication that seeks the saint’s help in our spiritual life. It goes:

“O God, through the mediation of Mary our Mother, you granted your priest St. Josemaria countless graces, choosing him as a most faithful instrument to found Opus Dei, a way of sanctification in daily work and in the fulfillment of the Christian’s ordinary duties.

Grant that I too may learn to turn all the circumstances and events of my life into opportunities to love you and serve the Church, the Pope, and all souls with joy and simplicity, lighting up the pathways of the earth with faith and love.

Deign to grant me, through the intercession of St. Josemaria, the favor of [state your request here], which I confidently ask for from your infinite mercy, and through the intercession of Mary our Mother. Amen.”

This prayer can be recited at any time, but it is especially powerful when prayed with faith and devotion. Many people have reported experiencing the powerful intercession of St. Josemaria Escriva through this prayer, receiving miraculous answers to their petitions.

How can St. Josemaria Escriva help me to become a saint?

St. Josemaria Escriva’s life and teachings offer a rich source of inspiration and guidance for anyone seeking to grow in holiness and become a saint. As a faithful follower of Christ, he dedicated his life to spreading the message of God’s love and mercy, and to helping others discover the joy and beauty of the Christian life.

One of the key teachings of St. Josemaria is the call to sanctify our daily work and activities. He believed that holiness is not just for priests and religious, but for everyone, regardless of their vocation or profession. By doing our work well and with a spirit of service and love, we can bring glory to God and sanctify our daily lives.

St. Josemaria also emphasized the importance of prayer and the sacraments in the spiritual life. He encouraged frequent confession and communion, and urged his followers to make time for daily prayer and reflection. By staying close to Christ through these means, we can grow in intimacy with Him and become more like Him.

Moreover, St. Josemaria taught that our daily struggles and difficulties are opportunities for spiritual growth and sanctification. By embracing these challenges with faith and trust in God, we can develop virtues such as patience, humility, and perseverance, and grow in holiness.

In summary, St. Josemaria Escriva can help us to become saints by showing us how to sanctify our daily work and activities, by encouraging us to deepen our prayer life and relationship with Christ, and by teaching us how to embrace our struggles and difficulties with faith and trust in God. By following his example and teachings, we can grow in holiness and become the saints that God has called us to be.