Saints, Martyrs, and Heroes

Saints, Martyrs, and Heroes are ordinary individuals who provide us with role models and examples of how to live as disciples in a complex world. By learning about their lives and paying attention to their example, we can draw strength for our journey of faith as we strive to bring about the vision of love, justice, and peace.

Collage of saints and holy people who dedicated their lives to living out the values Catholic Social TeachingDiscover inspiring resources that highlight the lives of saints, martyrs, and heroes who embodied the values of Catholic Social Teaching. These extraordinary individuals serve as role models of faith, justice, and compassion, offering profound examples of how to live out the Gospel in service to others and the common good.

On this page, you’ll find:

  • Profiles of Saints and Martyrs: Stories of holy men and women who championed human dignity, social justice, and peace in their lives and missions.
  • Faith-Based Reflections: Prayers and meditations inspired by the actions and legacies of saints who upheld the principles of Catholic Social Teaching.
  • Educational Resources: Lesson plans and activities exploring the connection between the lives of these saints and the Church’s call to promote justice, solidarity, and care for creation.
  • Multimedia Content: Videos, articles, and infographics that bring to life the enduring impact of saints and holy people who worked tirelessly for the poor, marginalized, and oppressed.
  • Advocacy Inspiration: Tools and examples of how the lives of saints can inspire modern acts of faith-based advocacy and justice.

These resources offer a meaningful way to explore the practical application of Catholic Social Teaching through the lives of those who have gone before us. Perfect for educators, faith leaders, and advocates, they serve as powerful tools for fostering a deeper understanding of the Catholic Church’s social tradition and a call to action in today’s world.

Prayer of Thanksgiving for the Life of Pope Francis

Prayer
On April 21, 2025, the Vatican announced the death of Pope Francis. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he became the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church in March 2013. He was the...

Earth Day: Protectors of Creation

In his inaugural homily, Pope Francis calls us to be protectors of creation. To heed his call, we need to be informed and reflect on the signs of the times. This fast fact sheet helps launch the...

Prayer for the Health of Pope Francis

Prayer
We pray for Pope Francis's health, asking God to grant him more time to guide us through these uncertain times. We seek his wisdom, faith, compassion, and courage. May healing be sent to Pope...

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Social Media Package

Download EFJ social media images, crafted in 1080×1080 resolution for Instagram and Facebook, and share them on your social media feeds or bulletin. These images focus on Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King...

Inauguration Prayer Service on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday

Prayer Service
We offer an opportunity for prayer and reflection on the significance of Inauguration Day and the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. national holiday, highlighting a call for peace, justice, and the...
Prayer Service MLK Mugshot.jpg

Prayer Service on Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Letter from a Birmingham Jail

Prayer Service
This prayer service includes excerpts from Dr. King’s famous “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” and includes reflection questions after each reading. Commemorate Black History Month in your...

A Prayer of Faith and Hope in a Time of Fear (Based on MLK)

Prayer
This prayer uses Martin Luther King Jr.'s reflections on Amos 5:24 and Micah 6:8 and speaks to a longing for peace and justice. Prayer excerpt: "In times of fear amid rumors of war, We pray that...

Las Posadas: Walking with Jesus and Mary Today

Prayer Service
This prayer service provides a script, readings, and directions for your community to join in the Las Posadas tradition, the re-enactment of the journey of Mary and Joseph as they seek refuge in...

Litany to Our Lady of Guadalupe

Litany
Our Lady of Guadalupe represents Mary's care for the poor, the disenfranchised, and those who are not privileged. She calls us to work together as her children so life can flourish even in...

A Peculiar Letter and MLK Jr.

Activity
Through a fictional letter from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to the Beloved Community of the 21st century, consider how you are being called to justice within your communities.  Commemorate Black...

Film Discussion - Going Home Like a Shooting Star

Film Discussion Guide
This discussion guide is based on the film, Going Home Like a Shooting Star: Thea Bowman's Journey to Sainthood. The documentary focuses on the life of Servant of God Sr. Thea Bowman, an African...

Marian Prayer for Mother's Day

Prayer
On Mother's Day, we pray to Mary, our universal mother, to watch over and protect all mothers. We pray for an end to danger, violence, and suffering so that all mothers have the freedom and ability...