Celebrate Feast of Blessed Brother James Miller

By Lou Anne Tighe, Campus Ministry
February 10, 2021

Valentine’s Day may be observed by some on Sunday, February 14, but the day before marks the anniversary of a sacrificial love that all should celebrate.

For it was on Saturday, February 13, 1982, when Brother James Miller F.S.C., was assassinated in front of the school in Huehuetenango, Guatemala. He sacrificed his life as he and the Brothers dedicated their lives to the students. For so great a love, Pope Francis declared him “Blessed James Miller.” With this decree of holiness, only one miracle is needed through his intercession for Blessed James to be declared Saint James Santiago Miller.

Blessed James’ story weaves deeply through the tapestry of narrative and legacy at Cretin-Derham Hall. He was a teacher, a steward of the earth, and an incredible handyman. The fall soccer season is an annual reminder that he started the program in the late 1960s. There was and is no separation between labor and the love of God and neighbor. When students raise money for various philanthropic foundations, they bring to light his legacy of generosity. Gathering products to be distributed to those without housing, they further his promise to provide. Exploring the dynamics of race in our lives, we recognize his courage to understand others’ stories and cultures not like our own.

In the particular, we encounter the universal. Through the life of the Blessed, we discover a universal call to love. Students learn about Blessed James and see his portrait in our hallways. Recently, a relic, a lock of his own hair, has been displayed in our chapel. As a sign and symbol of his presence, we ask him to intercede for us and our intentions:

O Blessed Brother James Miller, you heard God’s call to become a Brother of the Christian Schools and so became a sign of faith to youth in the United States and in Central America. 

You placed your life and your trust in Divine Providence and, for spreading the faith, merited the crown of martyrdom. In a world that denies the dignity of the human person, obtain for us from Divine Providence an ever-increasing love of God and our neighbor, especially the poor and oppressed. 

Obtain for us also the favor we are now asking for [mention request] and the grace and strength to be a witness to Christ’s love to all. Amen. 

Imprimatur: +William Patrick Callahan, OFM Conv., Bishop of La Crosse – February 7, 2020

While his is not the only narrative of Cretin-Derham Hall, his story certainly embodies it. For Blessed James would prefer we look beyond him toward what he committed his life, i.e., for whom he was willing to risk his life. The call to accompany the poor, i.e., the dear neighbor, and provide an education that would not only provide benefit, but also potentially change an unjust social system.  For the education of all people, especially those with the least access to it, renews society and moves it toward social transformation.  

Blessed James “Santiago” Miller,
Pray for us!
Live Jesus in our hearts.
Forever!