A Day of Remembrance and Reflection
On January 21, Tarragona experienced a day full of emotion as it commemorated the sacrifice of Saints Fructuosus, bishop, and the deacons Augurius and Eulogius. This solemn act took place in the Roman amphitheater, the same stage where these martyrs offered their lives in the year 259.
Tradition and Community
The Sant Fructuós Cultural Association was responsible for coordinating the prayer and reading of the ‘Passio Fructuosi’, one of the oldest martyrdom texts in the Iberian Peninsula. The ceremony was led by Archbishop Joan Planellas, and brought together more than a hundred people, including the president of the association, Imma Teixell, and students from the Col·legi Dominiques de Tarragona.
A Message of Solidarity and Faith
After reading the acts of martyrdom, Archbishop Planellas shared a profound reflection. He emphasized that Fructuosus’ prayer, which encompasses the entire Church, reminds us that the community of believers is universal and that faith unites us on the same path to salvation.
The Importance of Community
Planellas highlighted that, in moments of great sacrifice, Fructuós thought of the community and of Jesus Christ, reflecting his conviction that after pain there is eternal life. He called on all those present to transmit their faith with the same determination as the martyrs of the past.
The Pontifical Mass: An Act of Renewal
The celebration culminated with a pontifical mass in the cathedral of Tarragona, where Archbishop Planellas presided over the acceptance ceremony of the new canons of the Cathedral Chapter.
An Example of Courage
The Archbishop recalled that the ‘Passio Fructuosi’ narrates how Fructuosus, facing his executioners, accepted the divine will with the same determination as Jesus on the Cross. He urged everyone not to remain passive in the face of difficulties, but to go out and face reality with courage.
A Call to Action
In a world where fear and indifference can dominate, Planellas reminded us that Christians must be active. “We are not Christians to remain inactive; our baptism calls us to act with determination and coherence,” he said.
Final Reflection
The commemoration of the martyrdom of Fructuosus and his deacons not only serves as a memory of the past, but also as an encouragement for the current community to live the faith with courage and commitment, taking the example of those who were able to offer everything for their belief.
