Daily Saint

St. Josemaría Escrivá was a 20th-century priest whose message led thousands to holiness through everyday work and responsibilities. Born in 1902 in Barbastro, Spain, he grew up in a devout Catholic family. As a child, he experienced the loss of his three younger sisters and, a few years later, his father’s death. Walking in the snow one day, he saw a monk’s bare footprints. The significance of that moment led him to discern religious life, and he was ordained in 1925.

He began his ministry with deep concern for the poor and suffering. In 1928, during a time of prayer, he received a profound, sudden illumination that all people are called to holiness, not only through extraordinary acts, but through the faithful fulfillment of ordinary daily duties. This inspiration led to the founding of Opus Dei, meaning the Work of God.

Through Opus Dei, St. Josemaría encouraged laypeople and clergy alike to seek God in their work, family life, and social responsibilities. He emphasized that everyday tasks, done with love and offered to God, become a path to sanctity.

His ministry unfolded during the Spanish Civil War, a turbulent period in Spain. He faced persecution and danger. Despite these challenges, he continued to guide and form those entrusted to his care.

Later, he moved to Rome, where he expanded Opus Dei internationally. His spiritual writings, including The Way, Christ Is Passing By, and Friends of God, offer practical guidance on prayer, humility, and living a Christian life in the modern world.

St. Josemaría Escrivá died suddenly on June 26, 1975. During his canonization in 2002, Pope John Paul II praised his message as a reminder that holiness is accessible to all. Opus Dei is active in 70 countries and has a membership of 95,000, mostly laypeople.