North American Martyrs

When I was in the seminary, I remember taking a classmate for a scheduled appointment at Brebeuf High School, located near Indianapolis. I thought it was an interesting name for a high school and it was operated by the Jesuits. That is why the memorial that is celebrated today, especially in the United States makes sense. Saint Isaac Jogues, Saint John de Brebeuf, and their companions were Jesuit martyrs. Their martyrdom occurred between the years 1642 and 1649 in North America. They were tortured by the members of the Huron and Iroquois tribes when they tried to bring the true faith into their region (Magnificat, 266-67). Through the intercession of the North American Martyrs, we pray that our faith will be strengthened and that we will continue to spread the Good News to all peoples. Have a blessed day!