Escrivá de Balaguer

Escrivá de Balaguer was a Spanish priest and the founder of Opus Dei, an organization within the Roman Catholic Church established in 1928. He is known for his teachings on the sanctification of ordinary life and emphasized the importance of laypeople living their faith in their daily activities. His writings and spiritual guidance aimed to promote the idea that everyone is called to holiness, regardless of their vocation. In 2002, he was canonized by Pope John Paul II, which significantly raised the profile of Opus Dei. The organization has often been the subject of controversy and scrutiny due to its secretive nature and influence within the Catholic Church and society at large.