North American Martyrs

The North American Martyrs are a group of Jesuit priests and missionaries from France who were killed in the 17th century while working to spread Christianity among Indigenous peoples in North America. They are remembered for their dedication and sacrifice, often facing hardship, violence, and death in their efforts to share their faith. Their stories symbolize the complex history of cultural encounters during that period and highlight themes of faith, courage, and reconciliation. They were canonized as saints by the Catholic Church and are honored especially in regions like New York and Ontario.