Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

Why are some non-Catholic Christian churches named “St. X,” such as St. John’s Church or Calvary School in Springfield, whose nickname is “Saints”? This question, posed by Rachel from Springfield, seeks to clarify the assumption that only Catholics honor saints.

Father Kevin Laughery sheds light on this topic, explaining that non-Catholic Christians do, indeed, recognize sainthood. He points out the inclusion of ten "martyrs of the 20th century" above the west door of Westminster Abbey in London. This church, belonging to the Church of England, includes statues of individuals such as Catholic Saints Maximilian Kolbe and Oscar Romero, the Baptist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and the Lutheran Dietrich Bonhoeffer. From Christianity's early days, martyrs who died for their testimony of Jesus were the first saints recognized.

Father Laughery highlights concerns within non-Catholic Christian communities about excessive devotion to saints overshadowing faith in Jesus. While some Christians are cautious about emphasizing saints, Catholic teachings promote seeking saintly intercession as an act akin to asking family and friends for prayers. Imitating the virtues of saints is also encouraged.

The term "saint" originates from the Latin word "sanctus," meaning "holy." Early saints were often recognized by popular acclaim for their holiness. This explains why non-Catholic churches might adopt saint names like “St. John.” These churches acknowledge the holiness of these figures, though they may not recognize more recent saints, unlike Catholic tradition which has a detailed process for sainthood involving the Vatican Dicastery for the Causes of Saints.

An ongoing case is the cause of the Venerable Father Augustine Tolton, born a slave in Missouri in 1854. After a challenging journey to priesthood due to racial discrimination, Father Tolton's sainthood cause awaits miracles for advancement. His story is one of perseverance in the face of adversity, illustrating broader themes of healing from racial injustices in America.

Father Laughery emphasizes the ultimate goal for all Christians is to strive for holiness and enter heaven’s divine company.

Father Kevin Laughery serves as pastor at St. Jerome in Troy and St. James in St. Jacob and formerly held roles as ecumenical and interreligious officer within his diocese.