Sante Spessotto was born in Italy in 1923. At 10 he felt a calling to the priesthood, and he joined the Franciscans as a novitiate at 15, taking the religious name Cosma. Ten years later he was ordained a priest and he requested to join the missions in China, but was sent to El Salvador instead. He learned Spanish, served as pastor, and for 30 years he was constantly covered in dust from riding the roads on his Vespa as he brought the sacraments and the Gospel message to people all around his parish. He raised funds for a school and health clinic and oversaw the construction of a new church. As political tensions grew worse he tried to bring peace between the two sides. While alone in prayer in his church in 1980, he was gunned down by two men.
CHALLENGE
When Blessed Cosma Sante Spessotto got death threats, his superiors suggested he leave. He refused and continued to minister to the sick and the poor while denouncing violence. His dying words were “pardon… pardon….” In your life, are you willing to continue to do God’s work no matter the cost, and forgive those who persecute you? Today, pray for the gift of a martyr’s courage to continue to do God’s work.
Forwarded this email? Don’t miss tomorrow! Sign up today and get The Saint Challenge delivered to your inbox!
Thanks for subscribing to The Saint Challenge. If you’re enjoying it, forward it to a friend!
