Indiana’s Catholics reflect American spirit of courage and sacrifice

As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary this year, the country will acknowledge this landmark moment by recalling the stories of its founders, its heroes and the everyday people who have graced America with their courage, their sacrifice and their willingness to confront challenges and overcome them.

In that same spirit, The Criterion is sharing stories of Catholics from Indiana’s past and present who have displayed those same qualities in leaving their mark on our archdiocese, our state, our country and our world.

As we begin this series, we hope you enjoy these stories and are inspired by the people in them.

This week's stories:

Bishop Bruté helped establish the Church on the American frontier
Leaning on Providence: The remarkable journey of Indiana’s first saint
Priest’s legacy of faith and sacrifice inspires across the generations
Sculptor captures essence of America’s first recognized priest of African descent

The Criterion

June 26, 2026

Indiana’s Catholics reflect American spirit of courage and sacrifice

This week's stories:

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