José María Rubio
José María Rubio, SJ, was a Spanish Jesuit known as the "Apostle of Madrid". He is remembered for his tireless work with the poor, his effectiveness as a preacher and confessor, and his founding of social schools. He was canonized by Pope John Paul II in 2003.
- Century
- 20th century
- Country Or Region
- Spain
Key Facts
- ›He was born on July 22, 1864, in Dalías, Spain, to Francisco Rubio and Mercedes Peralta.
- ›He was ordained a priest on September 24, 1887, and later joined the Society of Jesus in 1906.
- ›He distinguished himself in the suburbs of Madrid, serving the poor, cleaners, and dressmakers.
- ›Rubio founded associations such as the "Marys of the Tabernacles" and social schools in the Ventilla neighborhoods.
- ›He died on may 2, 1929, in Madrid.
- ›He was canonized by Pope John Paul II on may 4, 2003.
Apostle of Madrid
About José María Rubio
José María Rubio, SJ
José María Rubio, SJ (1864–1929) was a Spanish Jesuit priest renowned for his profound spiritual dedication and extensive charitable work, particularly among the poor of Madrid. He is widely recognized by his epithet, the "Apostle of Madrid," a title bestowed upon him by the Archbishop of Madrid at the time of his death.
Life and Ministry
Born into a farming family in Dalías, Rubio's early education led him to the diocesan seminary of Almeria and later to the major seminary in Granada, where he studied Philosophy and Theology. He was ordained a priest in 1887. After serving in suburban Madrid as a curate and pastor, he distinguished himself by his austerity, his catechesis of children, and his service to the poorest. He also taught at the seminary in Madrid and served as a notary and registrar for the diocese.
In 1904, a pilgrimage to the Holy Land inspired Rubio to join the Society of Jesus, which he entered in 1906, making his religious profession in 1908. He spent the remainder of his life in Madrid, where he became known as a gifted preacher and confessor, drawing large crowds seeking spiritual help. His ministry focused on the marginalized and the poor, leading him to establish tuition-free schools that offered both academic and vocational training. He also founded and organized associations such as the "Marys of the Tabernacles" and social schools in the Ventilla neighborhoods.
Canonization and Legacy
During his lifetime, Rubio was noted for extraordinary spiritual gifts, including reported instances of bilocation, healings, prophecy, and clairvoyance. His life exemplified his motto: "Do what God wants and want what God does." His spiritual writings were approved by theologians in 1952. He was beatified by Pope John Paul II in Rome on October 6, 1985, and canonized by the same pontiff in Madrid on May 4, 2003. A significant miracle cited for his canonization was the healing of lung cancer in a fellow Jesuit, José Luis Gómez Munten, in 1988. His remains are venerated in the church of San Francisco de Borja and the Sacred Heart of the Society of Jesus in Madrid.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was José María Rubio?
José María Rubio was a Spanish Jesuit priest, born in 1864 and died in 1929. He is widely known as the "Apostle of Madrid" for his extensive charitable work and ministry.
What is José María Rubio known for?
He is chiefly remembered for his deep commitment to the poor in Madrid's suburbs, his effective preaching and role as a confessor, and his founding of social schools and associations to aid those in need.
When was José María Rubio canonized?
José María Rubio was canonized by Pope John Paul II on May 4, 2003. He had previously been beatified by the same pontiff on October 6, 1985.
What was his motto?
His personal motto was: "Do what God wants and want what God does." This reflected his deep surrender to divine will and his belief in finding sanctity through it.
Where are his remains venerated?
The remains of José María Rubio are venerated in the church of San Francisco de Borja and the Sacred Heart of the Society of Jesus in Madrid.
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