The global Carmelite community is in mourning following the loss of their youngest member, Friar Pablo MarĂ­a de la Cruz Alonso Hidalgo.

At the age of 21, he bravely ended his five-year battle with Ewing sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer, on July 15, right before the Feast Day of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. The heart-rending news came from Prior Provincial Friar Salvador Villota Herrero of the Carmelite Convent of St. Andrew in Salamanca, Spain.

Pablo’s journey was remarkable.

He received his diagnosis at 16, yet his steadfast faith and commitment to religious life never faltered. In fact, the disease only deepened his religious calling. He became a Carmelite novice in the final weeks of his life, an exception granted due to his terminal illness. His family, novice master, and spiritual director witnessed his vows at the Carmel de Abajo Church in Salamanca.

The world came to know about Pablo’s unwavering faith through his social media posts, where he often quoted Carmelite St. Titus Brandsma.

He embraced his ordeal with resilience, stating, “The cross is my joy, not my sorrow.” His chosen name, Pablo MarĂ­a de la Cruz, showcases his devotion to the Virgin Mary and the glory of Christ’s cross.

His funeral was conducted at the Church of Carmen de Abajo on July 17.

As the world joins the Carmelite community in mourning, we honor Friar Pablo’s enduring faith, strength, and courage in the face of adversity. His memory serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, inspiring all to face life’s trials with bravery and grace.

Pray for Friar Pablo!

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