St Josemaria Escriva – 26th June 2024

0626 St Josemaria Escriva 1p SMC 8.5 x 11 R1R 20240414

St. Josemaria Escriva was born in Barbastro, Spain, on January 9, 1902. He was ordained to the priesthood in Zaragoza, Spain on March 28, 1925. On October 2, 1928, by divine inspiration, he founded Opus Dei—a Personal Prelature of the Catholic Church that fosters among Christians the search for holiness in the world, especially in the ordinary circumstances of life and the sanctification of work. Speaking about his own life, St. Josemaria explained that, “the life of a man who lives by faith will always be the story of the mercies of God. At some moments the story may perhaps be difficult to read, because everything can seem useless and even a failure. But at other times Our Lord lets one see how the fruit abounds and then it is natural for one’s soul to break out in thanksgiving” On June 26, 1975, he died suddenly in Rome after a final affectionate glance at a picture of Our Lady in the room where he worked. Pope St. John Paul II canonized St. Josemaria in Rome on October 6, 2002. His liturgical feast is celebrated on June 26.

Prayer for Saint Josemaría’s intercession.

O God, through the mediation of Mary our Mother, you granted your priest St. Josemaría 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 occasions of loving You and serving the Church, the Pope and all souls with joy and simplicity, lighting up the pathways of this earth with faith and love. Deign to grant me, through the intercession of St. Josemaría, the favor of … (make your request). Amen.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be to the Father.