December 6
John Scheffler, bishop and martyr (1887–1952)
martyr bishop
Bishop of Satu Mare and martyr of communism, John Scheffler defended the freedom of the Church and turned prison into a place of catechism and prayer.
Biography
Priest, canonist and trainer, he alternated teaching with pastoral ministry before receiving the episcopacy. The Romanian regime wanted to separate him from Rome and control his diocese; Given his refusal, he was monitored, confined and imprisoned. In Jilava he endured forced labor, humiliation and torture, including boiling water showers. He died in 1952 after offering spiritual comfort to his fellow captives.
Practical advice
Maintain a fair conviction today even if it costs you approval, and express it without aggressiveness or contempt.
Example of
FortitudePrayerSacrifice