The Shepherd Who Didn't Run

Father Stanley Rother, Martyr from Oklahoma

De: Maria Ruiz Scaperlanda

Narrado por: Jo Anna Perrin

"The shepherd cannot run at the first sign of danger." - Fr. Stanley Francis Rother

Fr. Stanley Rother was true to his word. He did not run. And was martyred at the age of 46.

Fr. Stanley arrived in Guatemala in 1968, and immediately identified with his parishioners' simple, farming lifestyle. He learned their languages, prepared them for the Sacraments, and cared for their needs. Fr. Stanley, or "Padre Francisco" as he was called by his beloved Tz'utujil Indians, had found his heart's calling.

After nearly a decade, the violence of the Guatemalan civil war found its way into the peaceful village. Disappearances, killings, and danger became daily occurrences, but despite this unrest Fr. Stanley remained hard at work, building a farmer's co-op, a school, a hospital, and the first Catholic radio station, used for catechesis.

In early 1981, his name was on a death list, so he returned to Oklahoma and was warned not to return. But he could not abandon his people, so he went back, and made the ultimate sacrifice for his faith.

"Pray for us that we may be a sign of the love of Christ for our people," said Fr. Stanley, "that our presence among them will fortify them to endure these sufferings in preparation for the coming of the Kingdom."

©2015 María de Lourdes Ruiz Scaperlanda (P)2018 Tantor

Faith

Very influential in my faith with the church and the way I share my faith with those who are in need of faith.

True and faithful

A great audio book that gives an excellent insight into the life and journey of Blessed Fr Stanley Rother. A must read or listen.

Compelling account of a truly compelling life!

What a powerful thing to read (or listen!) to this marvelous retelling of Fr. Stanley’s life and death while on pilgrimage to the resting place of this Shepherd who didn’t run at the Bl. Stanley Rother Shrine outside of Oklahoma City.