Summary
On 7 February, a Mass was held for the beatification of Venerable Servant of God Salvador Valera Perea in Huércal-Overa, Andalusia region, Spain. The celebration was presided over by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints. Born into a poor family on 27 February 1816, Valera grew up through epidemics and famines, developing strong faith. Ordained at 24 in 1838, he served as parish priest in Alhama de Murcia and Cartagena until 1868 before returning to Huércal-Overa where he served as the local parish priest for nearly four decades. Recognized for his dedication, humility, generosity, and commitment to Christ, Valera received civil honors and awards throughout his life. In 2007, Tyquan Hall was born in critical condition; Dr. Juan Sánchez-Esteban prayed for Father Valera’s intercession which led to Hall’s recovery from severe neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. This miracle prompted the beatification process and approval by Pope Francis on June 20, 2025. Cardinal Semeraro highlighted Valera’s life dedicated to others in his homily, emphasizing St. Paul’s description of “the scent of Christ” and Valera as a lasting testimony and model of life.
Key Topics
Huércal-Overa, Father Valera, Cardinal Marcello Semeraro
