D. Juan Hervás

D. Juan Hervás, a pastor of luminous soul and tireless dedication, marked an indelible milestone in the history of the Catholic Church as the “Bishop of the Cursillos”. Born in the noble land of Puzol (Valencia), he dedicated his life to being an instrument of God, carrying the light of the Gospel with an ardor that never faded.
Since his priestly ordination, and later as bishop, Hervás embodied the example of the good and faithful shepherd who walks with his flock. It was in Mallorca where he met young people committed to Christ and his Church, whom he welcomed, encouraged, guided and supported in the creation of a Movement that would revolutionize the way of evangelizing: the Cursillos of Christianity. With a clear and bold vision, he recognized in them not only a method, but a way to renew Christian life in its purest essence.

When the movement faced criticism, misunderstandings and attacks, Bishop Hervas not only stood firm, blessing it “with both hands” but also stood as its most fervent defender. His Pastoral “The Cursillos of Christianity, instruments of Christian renewal” was a beacon in stormy times, giving hope and direction to a movement that was called to transform hearts and communities.

In 1955, his transfer to Ciudad Real, after being denounced to Rome, in spite of everything, marked a new providential chapter. From there, Bishop Hervas spread the spirit of the Cursillos beyond the Spanish borders, reaching Latin America and the whole world. His tireless work made him the great promoter of an evangelization centered on the person, the encounter with Christ and the Christian community.
Hervás was a man of great humanity. He knew how to listen, understand and encourage. Although he faced moments of loneliness, misunderstanding and criticism, he never stopped trusting in divine providence or passionately defending what he believed in. Until the end of his days, he carried with him the joy of having been an instrument in God’s work.

But Bishop Hervás was not only a tireless pastor; he also played a leading role in one of the most momentous events of the modern Church: the Second Vatican Council. As an active participant, his interventions reflected his deep love for the Church, his fidelity to the Pope and his desire for a more effective and closer evangelization. His pastoral vision and his experience with the Cursillos influenced discussions on the role of the laity in the mission of the Church, echoing his conviction that the laity are fundamental to the building of the Kingdom of God.

When Pope John Paul II, in 1979, recognized his work as a “dedicated, solicitous and fruitful pastor”, he only confirmed what thousands of cursillistas around the world knew: Bishop Hervás had been a light in their lives, an authentic witness of God’s love.

Bishop Juan Hervás y Benet died in 1982 in Felanitx and his mortal remains await the resurrection in the Cathedral of Ciudad Real, in the chapel of the Sorrowful Virgin. He departed to the arms of the Father leaving a legacy that is still alive in every cursillista, in every encounter and in every renewed soul. His life is a testimony that the Gospel, when lived with love, joy, friendship, commitment and audacity, can change the world.

Today, we remember Bishop Hervás with gratitude and admiration, certain that his spirit continues to encourage us to walk “colorfully” through life, bringing the love of Christ to every corner of the world.

Raúl González Hurtado.

December 2024.