Saint Stanislaus, Bishop and Martyr
April 11

Have you ever had to confront evil or injustice? Have you ever tried to reason with those who could not see reason, or share your faith with those who were not open to God? I remember a few episodes in high school where I would ask those around me not to use foul language or when I chose to disassociate with those who were known to drink, smoke or act promiscuously. But all of this pales in comparison to what Stanislaus went through. He was born near Kraków, Poland in 1030. He was ordained a priest, became known for his preaching and holy example, and was ordained bishop of Kraków in 1072. He was known for his boldness and spoke out against unjust wars, immorality and other evils. Preceding Thomas More and Thomas Becket, all three of them vigorously opposed the evils of unjust government, even to the point of standing up to the king.  King Boleslaus killed Stanislaus himself, after the saintly bishop excommunicated him due to his evil ways.  May we learn from the example of Saint Stanislaus to boldly proclaim the truth, no matter what the cost. 
—Tami Urcia