November 7
Francisco Palau y Quer (1811–1872)
Carmelite religious missionary
He was born in Aytona, Lérida, Spain, into a large and pious family of peasants.
Biography
He entered the seminary of Lérida and then did the novitiate with the Discalced Carmelites of San José in Barcelona, but, because their convent had been closed, he was ordained in Barbastro on April 2, 1836. He was exiled by the liberal government for having founded a pioneering school in adult catechesis. He remained in exile for six years and, upon regaining his freedom, he enthusiastically devoted himself to the service of the Church in various fields. A great lover of the Church, he continued to defend its interests through the press and the pen. He founded the Missionary Carmel that endures today in the two congregations: Missionary Carmelites and Teresian Missionary Carmelites. Misunderstandings and persecutions made the final years of his sacrificial dedication to the service of the marginalized of Barcelona difficult. He was beatified by John Paul II in Rome on April 24, 1988.
Practical advice
Without seeking recognition, overcome human respect with a clean and brave word without seeking applause or recognition.