Someone recently sent me an e-mail that stated that of the 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence, five signers were captured by the British as traitors, twelve had their homes ransacked and burned, two lost their sons serving in the Recolutionary Army, and nine fought and died from wounds or hardships of the Recolutionary War.  They signed, and they pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor.  No doubt our country grew in numbers and in commitment as "Americans" because of the sacrifices of those who signed the Declaration - and others as well.

This past week we celebrated the feast of two martyrs, St. Thomas the Apostle (July 3) and St. Maria Goretti (July 6). Though 19 centuries past from the time Thomas died for his faith until Maria Goretti died for hers (1902), the sacrifice they and other martyrs made (and some continue to make) are often the seed of new converts to faith in Jesus Christ and a means of strengthening the resolve of all Christians to be strong and grow stronger in our commitment to the Lord who said, "Whoever loses his life for my sake will find it."  (Matthew 19:38)  This certainly was in the minds and hearts of the martyrs and it is worthwhile to keep in our minds and hearts as well.