webprayze

        This month we celebrate two very important dates: the Feastday of Christ, the King & Thanksgiving Day, a uniquely American holiday!  Ann Ball of  Fr.Miguel Pro's Home Page suggests a way we can combine these special remembrances: “Mention Miguel to at least one friend this week. And please ask God, if it is His will, to let one of the pending miracles be approved so Miguel can enjoy the full honors of the altar. Don’t forget to ask Miguel for a favor! If there is nothing especially critical pending on your prayer list this week, then ask him to flood you with the true spirit of Thanksgiving and to infuse you with his joy this week.”  (Underline mine.)

        But who is Father Miguel Pro, S.J. & how does he figure in all these? Father Miguel, a 36-year-old Jesuit priest, was shot & martyred on November 23, 1927 on trumped up charges brought against him by the repressive Mexican government at that time. At his execution by firing squad, he was holding a rosary in one hand. He asked to kneel down in final prayer, stood up then spread out his arms to form a cross and cried, "Viva Cristo Rey! (Long Live Christ, the King!)," as he faced oncoming bullets. He is now Blessed Father Miguel Pro, beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1988 & his cause is awaiting elevation to final sainthood!