Emilio de Catalina, PhD. Published on: May 16, 2026, 11:49 am
The Reward of Martyrs
A great reward in heaven awaits those who suffer persecution or die for the faith or for certain Christian virtues. The number of martyrs who have died for the Catholic faith is estimated to exceed sixteen million. All the Apostles suffered persecution, and all except Saint John became martyrs for their faith. Saint John the Baptist was beheaded for rebuking Herod regarding his violation of the marriage law. Saint John Nepomucene was killed for refusing to violate the seal of confession.
"Therefore, everyone who acknowledges me before others, I also will acknowledge before my Father in heaven" (Matthew 10:32).
The Danger of Neglecting Religious Study
The neglect of studying the truths of our religion is a common cause of ignorance, a bad life, apostasy, and impenitence. We must be zealous in studying Christian doctrine through catechism classes, sermons, missions, and retreats. If we have doubts, we should consult our clergy; God will not forgive ignorance if we deliberately neglect the means He has given to remedy it.
