St. Josemaría Escrivá’s Centennial Celebration of His Priestly Ordination in Zaragoza and Rome to Feature Liturgical and Academic Events

The 28th of March marks an important anniversary for the Catholic community.

It will be exactly 100 years since St. Josemaría Escrivá, the founder of Opus Dei, was ordained a priest.

This milestone will be celebrated with a series of liturgical and academic events in both Zaragoza, Spain, and Rome.

A Glorious Moment in Zaragoza

St. Josemaría Escrivá was ordained a priest in Zaragoza at the chapel of the current St. Charles Borromeo Seminary.

His journey to priesthood began in 1920 when he transferred to this seminary from Logroño.

While studying theology at the Pontifical University of Zaragoza, he also pursued law at the state university.

Two days after his ordination, on March 30, 1925, St. Josemaría celebrated his first Mass.

This took place on the Monday of Holy Week at the Our Lady of the Pillar Cathedral, and he offered it for the repose of the soul of his father, José Escrivá, who had passed away the previous November.

Events in Zaragoza for the Centennial

To commemorate this milestone, several activities are planned in Zaragoza.

On March 27, an academic event will take place, featuring distinguished speakers including the Archbishop of Zaragoza, Carlos Escribano, priest and historian José Luis González Gullón, Cardinal Lazzaro You Heung-sik from the Dicastery for the Clergy, and Monsignor Fernando Ocáriz, the Prelate of Opus Dei.

Later in the day, there will be a Mass celebrated at the Our Lady of the Pillar Basilica, followed by a prayer vigil at St. Charles Borromeo Royal Seminary, dedicated to priestly vocations.

A Holy Card for the Centennial Celebration

In honor of the centennial, a special commemorative holy card has been created, featuring a photo of St. Josemaría during his seminary days.

The holy card is available in 13 languages and includes a prayer asking for the intercession of St. Josemaría to bring “holy and abundant vocations” to the seminaries.

Solemn Mass and Meetings in Rome

On the following day, a solemn Mass will be held at St. Charles Borromeo Church in Zaragoza.

Monsignor Ocáriz will also participate in various meetings with priests, families, and young people to further celebrate the life and legacy of St. Josemaría Escrivá, a priest who left a profound mark on the Church and the world.