“Paratrooper Padre,” Fr. Francis Sampson, parachuted into Normandy on D-Day. He saved lives, was nearly executed, and was nominated for the Medal of Honor.
Episodes about "episodes"
Andre Cailloux
Andre Cailloux, a black Catholic in antebellum New Orleans, became one of the first black officers in the Union Army, and died heroically during the attack on Port Hudson.
Maria von Trapp
Long before The Sound of Music, Maria von Trapp was the driving force behind the Trapp Family Singers. Her life was more interesting than the musical suggests.
Immaculate Conception, the Patroness of the United States
In 1846 the bishops of the United States voted to name the Immaculate Conception the patroness of the United States of America.
Sister Ignatia and Alcoholics Anonymous
Sister Ignatia co-founded Alcoholics Anonymous at St. Thomas Hospital in the 1930s. Her methods became important parts of the way AA works.
Patricia Neal
Hollywood star Patricia Neal had a famous affair with Gary Cooper before marrying Roald Dahl. She endured tragedy before finding peace at Regina Laudis Abbey.
Gary Cooper
Gary Cooper was one of the great hollywood actors of all time. But his womanizing ways were a problem until a late in life conversion.
Ponce de Leon and the First Mass
Ponce de Leon landed on the coast of Florida in April 1513, and the first Mass was offered. Because it was Holy Week he named the land “La Florida.”
Roger Maris
Roger Maris was New York Yankee who broke Babe Ruth’s single-season home run record. He was a quiet, hard-working Catholic who cared for teammates and family.