On Saturday, Brother James Miller, FSC was beatified at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Huehuetenango, Guatemala.

Brother James is the first De La Salle Christian Brother from the United States to be beatified. A native of Wisconsin, Brother James died a martyr on February 13, 1982, in Huehuetenango, Guatemala.

On November 8, 2018, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis approved a decree recognizing that Brother James died as a martyr, an important step in his cause for beatification. The process to declare him a martyr began in 2009. Brother James was repairing a school wall when he was approached by three men, who shot and killed him.

“Brother James’ beatification is evidence that great things are possible through the ordinary activities of our ministry of human and Christian education. Brother James’ martyrdom calls us to witness to the Reign of God and, like so many others past and present, share the light of Christ no matter the cost,” said Brother Robert Schieler, Superior General of the Brothers of the Christian Schools.

Brother James’ story encompasses the true spirit of Lasallian education, including a deep love for learning, incredible selflessness and an unbreakable character.

Learn more about Brother James and celebrate his beatification by checking out these stories about his life:

• Letter from Superior General Brother Robert Schieler – Lasalle.org
• Martyred religious brother from Wisconsin farm family to be beatified in Guatemala – Catholic News Agency
• Brother ‘Fix-it’ Miller: The ordinary, unlikely saint – Our Sunday Visitor