The Association of the Holy Family is a group of Christian families, approved by the Holy See, which through the consecration to the Holy Family, Jesus, Mary and Joseph, intends to be a community of disciples, witnesses and apostles of Nazareth.
Saint Joseph Manyanet,
Bearer of a special Charism
"Yet if we remember him today, it is because he was the bearer of a very singular charisma
that allowed him to foresee in the second half of the 19th century, the importance of the family."
His name was Joseph Manyanet Vives, son of Antonio and Buenaventura. He was born on January 7, 1833, in Tremp (Lleida, Spain), was ordained to the priesthood on April 9, 1859, and consecrated as a religious on February 2, 1870. He died in Barcelona on December 17, 1901, considered a man of God by those who knew him.
From his family he had inherited the legacy of the meaning of duty, love for work and tenacity in the execution of his plans. His mind was clear and exact and he possessed a noble heart. For twelve years he served with his bishop Dr. Joseph Caixal. He was entrusted with matters of responsibility in the diocesan chancery at Urgell and later in Tremp.
Yet if we remember him today, it is not only by these biographical data, but because as priest and founder of two religious institutes, the Missionary Daughters and the Sons of the Holy Family, he was the bearer of a singular charisma that allowed him to foresee, already in the second half of the 19th century, the importance of the family.
He opened schools, wrote several books, and was a promoter of the Temple of the Holy Family in Barcelona. Father Manyanet answered dutifully the call of God, and with loyal and creative simplicity he was father, brother, pastor and teacher for families, children and youth.
