The French-born Bishop Simon Bruté, first bishop of Vincennes, Indiana, was a famed intellectual and missionary. He was even associated with Napoleon Bonaparte. But Tom and Noëlle Crowe tell us he was also a simple man of deep faith and very humble with a lasting impact.
In 1836, the Potawatomi, many of whom were Catholic, were force-marched from Indiana to Kansas. A young priest named Benjamin Petit, joined them.
Fr. Pierre Gibault and Francis Vigo were instrumental in helping George Rogers Clark defeat the British in the western theatre of the Revolutionary War.
An Italian Dominican friar missionary named Fr. Samuel Mazzuchelli evangelized the American Midwest in the early 19th century. His example continues to inspire.
Knute Rockne, legendary coach of Notre Dame football, revolutionized the game of football. He became Catholic after the example of his devout players.