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.
Discover 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.
The new film Cesar Chavez raises many challenging questions as we explore his legacy of seeking justice for farmworkers.
Posted on April 15, 2014
“Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Pacifist, Nazi Resister” is a documentary that explores the complex story of Pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Our discussion questions invite viewers to apply lessons from his...
Dietrich Bonhoeffer met martyrdom April 9, 1945, in a German concentration camp. He was one of the few church leaders who courageously opposed Adolf Hitler. Our prayer service unpacks the Beatitudes...
Sister Dorothy Stang’s words weave with her legacy of courageous advocacy on behalf of indigenous people, workers, and the vast beauty of the rainforest. This reflection calls us to look at her...
Martin Niemöller, whose birth we celebrate Jan. 14, is best known for his haunting “First they came…” reflection on complicity in the Holocaust. His story of conversion reminds us that as we...
The Courageous Heart of Irena Sendler tells the story of a woman who saved 2,500 children from likely death during the Holocaust. This discussion guide draws out key themes of Catholic social...
Eleanor Roosevelt played a key role in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. As we celebrate its 65th anniversary, explore her legacy in promoting the values of human dignity and solidarity that...
Examining the life of Dorothy Day provides opportunities to explore our own journey to justice. Discussion questions unpack the meaning of her amazing life.
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Christopher Kerr
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Christopher Kerr2013-12-06 16:36:492019-04-11 14:33:14The Long Walk: In Memory of Nelson Mandela
Pope Francis concludes “Evangelii Gaudium” (The Joy of the Gospel) with a prayer for the intercession of Mary as the church evangelizes. He writes of her presence at the stable in Bethlehem and...
St. Frances Cabrini is the patron of immigrants. Her feast day is November 13th. This prayer celebrates her labors of love as the first U.S. citizen to be canonized.
Lumen Fidei (The Light of Faith) is the first encyclical signed by Pope Francis. Jim Hug, S.J., former Center of Concern president, provides a precis, and we've added a few summary questions to help...
