Throughout the history of the Church numerous martyrs have testified in their court trials that they were Christians, that they feared none but God alone, and that they preferred to die rather than renounce their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Most of us will not have to testify before rulers and powers intent on forcing us to deny Jesus or die. Some of you may be required to do so; may you be inspired by the words of Jesus in today's Gospel reading.

Nonetheless, most of us are put on trial multiple times per week in the court of public opinion. These "trials" are held in the grocery store, in the office, at school, and even in Church buildings. This type of repeated trial has been referred to as "white martyrdom," a non-bloody way of being put on trial repeatedly for our faith in Christ. This can be draining, but Jesus tells us: "By patient endurance you will save your lives" (Lk 21:19).

Therefore, rely completely on the Holy Spirit. May the Spirit radiate in your time of trial as it did with St. Stephen, the first Christian "red martyr." Throughout his trial, his "face seemed like that of an angel" (Acts 6:15). As Christmas approaches, we will frequently hear the song "White Christmas." When I hear that song, I will be dreaming of a White Christmas, with an army of white martyrs leading the world to the Christ of Christmas. Come, Lord Jesus! (Rv 22:20)

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, May 3, 2018

The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.