Saints and souls - heroes for all

Our healthy spiritual growth benefits from exposure to heroes because they give us someone to imitate. But our society often confuses being a celebrity with being a hero. Here are tips for turning toward healthy role models like saints and heroes:

Someone similar: We tend to relate to role models who share our interests and personalities. If you are an athlete, look to St. Sebastian, the patron saint of athletes. He used his physical prowess to infiltrate the Roman army and protect Christians. If you are an avid reader, meet St. Francis de Sales, patron of authors and journalists. He moved many souls through his writing. (Hint: www.americancatholic.org has a listing of many patron saints.)

Here and now: Everyone loves hearing about real-life heroes around us. Keep a watch in the news for ordinary people who become heroes during special times. Share on social media stories about adults who have performed courageous tasks. Look for stories of saints who are also inspiring and share what you learn. 

                                     ***

Need to renew your subscription?
Login in and check out the Subscriber Section for special offers. 

Subscribe here

Why subscribe today?  

Our publications are unique in the field of Catholic publishing and work for you - the Catholic bishop, pastor, deacon, deacon, director of religious education, school principal, or pastoral associate. We want to partner with you to serve parishioners:

• Written by journalists and Catholic catechists, our editorial content is authentically Catholic, orthodox, and will help you encourage Catholics fully live the faith with joy.

• Extend the life of your homilies and lessons with our Gospel-centered, practical tips for living a Catholic life.

• Feel confident that parishioners are getting orthodox and faithful help. Our editorial content is based on published guidance from the Pope and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

• Two lines of personalization that you choose - usually the parish name and your own name - let parishioners know you care. 

• Email and phone access to the editorial staff means you can ensure inclusion of topics important to your parishioners and parish.
  
  
• The one-page design makes a cost-effective insert in your parish bulletins.

• Can't use the entire newsletter wholesale? The Microsoft Word versions make it easy to fit articles into blank spaces in your bulletin or placed into any publication your parish produces. (No attribution necessary.)

• Shore up parents' knowledge of the faith. Distribute and send home to your parish school or religious education families. 

• Enhance RCIA materials and give practical help to new Catholics. Also great for Baptismal classes to refresh new parents' knowledge of the faith.

• Friendly and practical ideas are perfect for returning Catholics programs your parish offers. 

• All material is orthodox and faithful, so you know parishioners are getting helpful advice you would give if only you had the time.