Today, on Day 353 of Saints in a Year, we honor Saints John de Brébeuf, Isaac Jogues, and Companions, collectively remembered as the North American Martyrs.

During the seventeenth century, these six Jesuit priests and two lay companions served in the missions of New France, primarily in what is now Canada and New York.

They faced dangerous journeys, harsh conditions, captivity, and persecution.

Among them, Saint Isaac Jogues survived torture and returned to North America, where he was eventually killed in 1646.

Saint John de Brébeuf and Saint Gabriel Lalemant were killed in 1649 during attacks on Wendat villages.

The eight martyrs were canonized by Pope Pius XI on June 29, 1930.

Their history also unfolded amid profound suffering among Indigenous communities, whose experiences remain essential to understanding this period.

Their story reminds us of the importance of courage, perseverance, and sharing the Gospel with humility and love.

Scripture

"No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends."

John 15:13

Thought to Remember

Faithfulness to Christ is not measured by how comfortable our journey becomes, but by whether we continue to love Him through its difficulties.

The North American Martyrs remind us that discipleship requires perseverance.

Prayer

Saints John de Brébeuf, Isaac Jogues, and Companions, strengthen our faith, protect missionaries and persecuted Christians, and help us share the Gospel through humility, compassion, and love.

Saints John de Brébeuf, Isaac Jogues, and Companions, pray for us. Amen.

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