saints

Francis started on the path to becoming a lawyer, but a theology his trajectory and became and excellent catechist and gifted writer who brought 72,000 souls back to the Catholic faith in just four years.

Fifty French Catholics killed under German Nazism were beatified Dec. 13, 2025, during a Mass at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris — an event that recognized their witness of faith during World War II.

The painting — which is displayed at the Catholic United Financial branch in St. Cloud as part of the diocese’s Jubilee Passport project — is inspiring pilgrims and parishioners alike.

The saints are alive! And, like us, they have human temperaments. Some were fierce and outgoing, others quiet and contemplative.

The canonizations will elevate to sainthood seven candidates who hail from Venezuela, Turkey, Papua New Guinea and Italy.

Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati died almost 100 years ago, but he would have fit in perfectly with many Catholics’ groups of friends. Frassati was a bro. He climbed rocks, threw parties, experienced heartbreak and punched fascists.

Detroit has never forgotten the Capuchin Franciscan priest, Blessed Solanus Casey, whose feast day is July 30. He loved hot dogs with onions, shooting pool, family reunions and practical jokes. He was devoted to the Detroit Tigers.

Blessed Carlo was a computer programer and Eucharist devotee who died of cancer in 2006 at age 15. Young people are especially drawn to Blessed Carlo, who will be canonized April 27.