Romana

The centennial of Blessed Josemaria Escriva’s birth (1902-2002) is celebrated in a recent issue of commemorative stamps by the Venezuelan Postal Service. The unveiling took place on June 8th in the auditorium of Caracas’ Monteavila University.

In response to thousands of Venezuelans who prayerfully turn to the late founder of Opus Dei, the Postal Service (IPOSTEL), joined by the Venezuelan Association of Cultural Development, brought about the philatelic issue to honor this widely admired priest. Many Venezuelans inspired by Blessed Josemaria’s message have begun and fostered a number of initiatives in the areas of welfare, education and culture.

The ten stamps represent an overview of the figure, role and legacy of the beatified Spanish monsignor. The issue consists of a million sets, ranging in price from 300 to 550 Bolivars.

Present at the inauguration were Gerardo Fernandez, infrastructure minister, and the vice-president of the Postal Service, Rafael Osio.

Many philatelic issues honoring Blessed Josemaria have come out in recent years. Recently, Spain commemorated the 25th anniversary of his death by issuing a stamp. So did Poland with a series dedicated to the “work ethic.” In 1998 Honduras observed the 70th anniversary of Opus Dei’s founding. Earlier (1995) Ecuador brought out another stamp. In 1994, the Colombian Postal Service brought out a stamp with his image and words from The Way, “May you seek Christ, may you find him, may you love him.” On the occasion of his beatification in 1992, Venezuela had also issued a commemorative series.