Bishop Parkes addresses the body of the USCCB, seeking their blessing to proceed with the Cause for Canonization of the Martyrs of La Florida. The motion was approved unanimously.

Almost 450 years ago, Jesuit Father Pedro Martínez was killed off the coast of Florida, making him the first Jesuit martyr of the New World.

A Reflection on the Florida-Georgia Martyrs

The outdoor Mass and opening of the sainthood cause for 86 Florida martyrs -- known as Antonio Cuipa and Companions -- was celebrated Oct. 12, just east of Tallahassee, the site of what will become the Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Martyrs.

A group of Christian Native Americans and missionary priests - all who died in St. Augustine and near present-day Jacksonville centuries ago while defending their faith - have been proposed for sainthood

About fifteen years ago, the late Dr. John Hann, then historian at the site of Mission San Luis in Tallahassee, told me that of the Apalachee nation, commonly thought to be extinct, a chief had been located in Louisiana. I found that to be great news, but I did not think I would ever have the pleasure of meeting this person.

Could Tallahassee one day have a Catholic saint to call its own? The push is getting underway to canonize an Apalachee Indian who was raised as a Christian at Mission San Luis and later died for the faith.

A summary of the History of the Cause for Canonization

They included priests giving up all for the kingdom. They were catechists proclaiming the gospel. They were chiefs guiding their people. They were laity who defiantly refused to recant their faith.

Why will the cardinal of Boston be in Florida this month? St. Augustine (the saint and town) has something to do with it.

Many know of the famous North American Martyrs, however, not many know of other martyrs in our nation’s history. This will hopefully no longer be the case as the cause for canonization of 82 martyrs from Florida will be opened on October 12, 2015.

“This is an exciting moment,” said Bishop Estévez, who will join Bishop Parkes, to speak at the La Florida Martyrs’ Mass. “The foundations of the Catholic Faith in America were so heroic, and the launching of the cause and building of the shrine will help more Americans know about this important history.”