Anniversary of Venerable Kapaun’s Death

“Walt, if I don’t come back, tell my Bishop that I died a happy death.”

Imagine the circumstances: a dismal prisoner of war camp halfway around the world. So many of your brothers had died from the brutal winter and conditions. Just when things are starting to look up, you get sick, and the camp guards come to take you away from those who are caring for you.

And yet you go to your death joyfully, knowing that you’ve given every last measure for your fellow man.

This year Father Emil Kapaun was named Venerable, and the Church recognized that he willingly and joyfully offered his life for others. He did this not only at the last moment, but by pouring himself out in service on the battlefield and in the prison camp.

Venerable Emil Kapaun, give us the courage to love others as much as you did!