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.

Rhythms of Social Justice: The Life and Legacy of Bob Marley - Death May 11

This resource profiles Bob Marley, a world-renowned musician whose legacy continues today. Through his music, he was able to advance issues of social justice and unite people in working for justice...

Digna Ochoa: Facing Injustice in Mexico

This resource invites us to reflect on the life of Digna Ochoa, an attorney and human rights defender from Mexico, who was assassinated in 2001 for defending victims of human rights abuses in her...
Prayer Service

Prayer Service for Mother’s Day

This two-page, ready-to-print prayer service focuses on celebrating the gifts that all mothers bring to the world. The scripture passage on the Visitation reveals Mary in touch with the world around...

Mary, Mother of All Africa

Mary has been hailed as Mother of all Africa. In a continent rich with cultures and resources, many are impoverished and are suffering the results of war and greed. This litany is a prayer of...

Dolores Huerta: Woman of Justice - April 10

At 85, Dolores Huerta remains a woman of vision and courage, still speaking out for migrant workers, for women, and for all those whose human dignity and human rights have not been respected. This...

Stations of the Cross: Reflection by Henri Nouwen

These Stations of the Cross were inspired by Fr. Henri Nouwen, who took his students to pray “Peace Stations” at a military base. As we walk the way of peace during this Lenten season, let us be...
Prayer Service

Remembering Saint Óscar Romero

Saint Óscar Arnulfo Romero: The People’s Saint and an Outspoken Voice for Justice This prayer service commemorates the anniversary of Saint Óscar Romero’s death and includes the readings he...

Pope Francis: 2015 World Day of Peace Message

In his 2015 World Day of Peace Message, Pope Francis focuses on modern day slavery, including human trafficking, the condition of the lives of so many migrants and immigrants around the world, and...
Film Discussion Guide

Selma Movie Discussion

Selma retells the story of one of the seminal moments in the history of the Civil Rights movement. In telling the story, the filmmakers used official FBI documents to illustrate that Dr. King and...

Vocation to Justice

Bishop Thomas J. Gumbleton, a retired auxiliary bishop of the Detroit archdiocese, was a leading voice for peace, justice, and civil rights in the Catholic Church. In an exclusive interview with...

Pope Francis Responds to Migrants with “Courage and Creativity”

Pope Francis, in his message on Migrants and Refugees, reminds us that ours is a church without borders, an open, inclusive church. He calls for courage and prays that we may all “enlarge our...
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Prayer

Prayer for the Community of Saints

We remember that we are all part of the community of saints, imperfect and diverse as we are. God calls us to be in relationship with Him and with each other.