Melanie Rigney

Leopold Mandić (1866-1942) wanted to reunite Roman Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians, and became a Capuchin friar as a step toward that desire.

Gianna Beretta Molla (1922-1962) had it all—a loving husband, three children, a fulfilling career as a pediatrician. What mattered more than any of those earthly joys was her faith.

Joseph’s love for Mary and Jesus began in his obedience to God. When angels told him to take Mary into his home, flee Bethlehem for Egypt, and then leave for Nazareth, Joseph did so without questioning.

In just six years, Alphonsus Rodriguez (1532-1617) lost his mother, wife, and young children. Who would have blamed the 38-year-old if he had become bitter and angry with God?

St. Martin de Porres (1579-1639) was born to an unwed African-Native Peruvian mother, and under Peruvian law his ethnicity and illegitimacy disqualified Martin from life as a religious.