Cardinal Cupich petition additional signers
To: His Eminence Blase Cardinal Cupich
We petition you to approve and support the beatification of Benjamin Joseph Salmon so the whole Church can benefit from his witness to Jesus' way of peace making.
Sincerely,
Jack Gilroy Holy Family Parish, Endwell, NY
100 years ago, 1918, my beloved father was flying in a 7 wood ply wing bomber of the US Navy. He and crew were planning to bomb and sink German U-Boats off the coast of Ireland. My father was a devout Catholic. As much as I respected and loved my father, I respect Ben Salmon more so.
100 years ago, 1918, my beloved father was flying in a 7 wood ply wing bomber of the US Navy. He and crew were planning to bomb and sink German U-Boats off the coast of Ireland. My father was a devout Catholic. As much as I respected and loved my father, I respect Ben Salmon more so.
Richard and Mary Keough St. Lucy's Church, Syracuse, NY
We must commit to the teaching of Ben Salmon and join with Pope Francis to a life of active Christian nonviolence. Like the early. Church lived for 300 years without militarism.. No support for killing, war or weapons.
We must commit to the teaching of Ben Salmon and join with Pope Francis to a life of active Christian nonviolence. Like the early. Church lived for 300 years without militarism.. No support for killing, war or weapons.
Mark Scibilia-Carver Mary Mother of Mercy Church, Trumansburg, NY
100 years after the end of WWI we are now in the midst of World War III being fought piecemeal, as Pope Francis has said. It would take a miracle of grace for US bishops to abandon their support for US war making and militarism, to follow the Pope more closely, to reject just war theory and embrace the full Gospel. This is the miracle we "followers" of Ben look for, admittedly a greater miracle than any miraculous cure.
100 years after the end of WWI we are now in the midst of World War III being fought piecemeal, as Pope Francis has said. It would take a miracle of grace for US bishops to abandon their support for US war making and militarism, to follow the Pope more closely, to reject just war theory and embrace the full Gospel. This is the miracle we "followers" of Ben look for, admittedly a greater miracle than any miraculous cure.
Fr. Edward L Palumbos Diocese of Rochester, Rochester, NY
We need models of sanctity who speak to our contemporary times. I support having an excellent role model of Gospel nonviolence and pray for this Cause.
We need models of sanctity who speak to our contemporary times. I support having an excellent role model of Gospel nonviolence and pray for this Cause.
Rev. Dr. Beverly. A. Bingle Holy Spirit Catholic Community, Toledo, OH
Fr. Bob Cushing St. Joseph Church, Waycross, GA
Robert E. Nee, MSW Senior Priest, Provincetown MA
Ben Salmon partnered, with Franz Jägerstätter, has been most prominent among the great crowd of lay witnesses who have lead me as a Catholic, priest, member of Pax Christi and past director of the Pax Christi Center for Conscience and War. May the official Church welcome him among them!
Ben Salmon partnered, with Franz Jägerstätter, has been most prominent among the great crowd of lay witnesses who have lead me as a Catholic, priest, member of Pax Christi and past director of the Pax Christi Center for Conscience and War. May the official Church welcome him among them!
Msgr. Charles W. Cicerale Diocese of Metuchen, NJ
Do the right thing and encourage others to speak truth (in Jesus' words: Love our enemies)...and enter in the communion model rather than the domination model of living the Gospel imperative.
Do the right thing and encourage others to speak truth (in Jesus' words: Love our enemies)...and enter in the communion model rather than the domination model of living the Gospel imperative.
Peter Murray Society of Jesus, Raleigh, NC
I believe we have to work for peace at various levels, and for life too. I feel that the recent attacks on the 'Sacred seamless garment" of Life given first by Cardinal Bernardin are needless, unkind and unhelpful. I'm a fighter for life and peace, both. Someone who was a True Peacemaker said: "I am the way the truth and the Life." Let's hear it for souls like Ben Salmon who really lived the gospel of non-violence and love.
I believe we have to work for peace at various levels, and for life too. I feel that the recent attacks on the 'Sacred seamless garment" of Life given first by Cardinal Bernardin are needless, unkind and unhelpful. I'm a fighter for life and peace, both. Someone who was a True Peacemaker said: "I am the way the truth and the Life." Let's hear it for souls like Ben Salmon who really lived the gospel of non-violence and love.
Amelia Fleming Catholic Peace Community of the Southern Tier, Binghamton, NY
Ellen E Barfield Veterans For Peace, War Resisters League, Women's Intl League for Peace & Freedom, Baltimore, MD
Sister Elizabeth Salmon is Ben S's daughter and needs to be listed as such, just as Jägerstätter's daughter Marie is acknowledged!
(Thanks. The embarrassed website administrator has made the correction.)
Sister Elizabeth Salmon is Ben S's daughter and needs to be listed as such, just as Jägerstätter's daughter Marie is acknowledged!
(Thanks. The embarrassed website administrator has made the correction.)
Dr. Thomas McCarty Webster, NY
I wish that I had the courage of Ben.
I wish that I had the courage of Ben.
Dan Finlay St. Catherine of Siena Parish, Ithaca, NY
Rick Sprout Lapsed Catholics of America, Endwell, NY
Deacon John Lalande II Dioceses of Peoria and Syracuse, Oswego, NY
This recognition is long overdue. Ben would be a wonderful saint for our times. Like Franz Jägerstätter, deserving of sainthood for his heroic qualities in going against the flow and not supporting war involvement that makes no sense.
This recognition is long overdue. Ben would be a wonderful saint for our times. Like Franz Jägerstätter, deserving of sainthood for his heroic qualities in going against the flow and not supporting war involvement that makes no sense.
Maureen Gilroy St. Catherine of Siena Church, Ithaca, NY
Our world needs a man like Ben Salmon to be recognized and looked up to and revered. His beautiful and clear act of saying no to any part of any war should be celebrated. Thank you for your consideration.
Our world needs a man like Ben Salmon to be recognized and looked up to and revered. His beautiful and clear act of saying no to any part of any war should be celebrated. Thank you for your consideration.
George McAnanama Veterans For Peace, Viet Nam Veterans Against the War (VVAW), Yonkers, NY
In Solidarity with all who seek peace & justice everywhere!
In Solidarity with all who seek peace & justice everywhere!
Julia Ganson Religious Society of Friends, Cortland, NY
Ben Salmon seems like a perfect candidate for sainthood, living his Catholic faith (not necessarily the political position of the Catholic Church) and serving as a role model for loving your fellow humans and working toward world peace.
Ben Salmon seems like a perfect candidate for sainthood, living his Catholic faith (not necessarily the political position of the Catholic Church) and serving as a role model for loving your fellow humans and working toward world peace.
Quintin Casella St. Catherine of Siena Church, Ithaca, NY
Mimi Darragh Pittsburgh Area Pax Christi, Pittsburgh, PA
Rachel Schmidt Pax Christi USA, Washington, DC
Mary Jane Kanyok Member: Association of Pittsburgh Priests, Uniontown, PA
Very happy to endorse this petition and thankful to know this is being pursued.
Very happy to endorse this petition and thankful to know this is being pursued.
William H. Privett Pax Christi, Brockport, NY
Edward T. Brett, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus, La Roche College, Pittsburgh, PA
Ben Salmon's life exemplifies the kind of saint the church needs more than ever today. His commitment to peace and nonviolence emulates the life of Jesus that is found in the Gospels. He shows our church where it needs to be today.
Ben Salmon's life exemplifies the kind of saint the church needs more than ever today. His commitment to peace and nonviolence emulates the life of Jesus that is found in the Gospels. He shows our church where it needs to be today.
Neil Himber Youngsville, PA
Ben Salmon is a very important role model in this age of violence. His witness for peace should be made known to all.
Ben Salmon is a very important role model in this age of violence. His witness for peace should be made known to all.
Anthony J. Blasi, Ph.D., Th.D. Pax Christi San Antonio. TX
Henry Lambert Pax Christi Burlington, Swanton, VT
Susan Sobeck St. Catherine, Schoolcraft, MI
Jeannette de Beauvoir Provincetown, MA
I am appalled by how many Catholics support a path to war, both in the US and elsewhere, through their support of leaders who will make war possible. If ever there were a time for the canonization of a conscientious objector, it is now. This is what the Gospel teaches and what we cannot ignore.
I am appalled by how many Catholics support a path to war, both in the US and elsewhere, through their support of leaders who will make war possible. If ever there were a time for the canonization of a conscientious objector, it is now. This is what the Gospel teaches and what we cannot ignore.
Beatrice Parwatikar Pax Christi Ambassador of Peace, St. Louis, MO
I believe we should honor such courage. This man stood up for the teachings of Christ.
I believe we should honor such courage. This man stood up for the teachings of Christ.
Tara Carr-Lemke OMC, Philadelphia, PA
Joyce and Vince Small Wynnewood, PA
Carol Jachim Pax Christi Michigan, Harper Woods, MI
May our God of peace be with all the peacemakers.
May our God of peace be with all the peacemakers.
David Frank OFS, Fort Wayne, IN
Marie Kruszewski Holy Family of Nazareth, Bellevue, PA
Helen Banta St. Gertrude Parish, Chicago, IL
Brian Ashmankas Pax Christi USA, Millbury, MA
Mary Louise Chesley-Cora Parish of the Resurrection, Hockessin, DE
I strive to live the Beatitudes of the non-violent Jesus, the Christ. I strongly support Ben Salmon’s cause. I see Ben Salmon as a person of integrity and compassion and one who upheld the teaching and example of non-violence of Jesus the Christ. I support his witness at this time when violence is so prevalent in our society. We need examples of courage and faith in this age. He is obviously a saint for our times and his life and story needs to be held up for the encouragement of others today.
I strive to live the Beatitudes of the non-violent Jesus, the Christ. I strongly support Ben Salmon’s cause. I see Ben Salmon as a person of integrity and compassion and one who upheld the teaching and example of non-violence of Jesus the Christ. I support his witness at this time when violence is so prevalent in our society. We need examples of courage and faith in this age. He is obviously a saint for our times and his life and story needs to be held up for the encouragement of others today.
Filo Hirota Catholic Council for Justice and Peace of Japan
Helen Jacobson, OSF Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia, Wilmington, DE
Rachel West Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, IN
Wanda Guthrie Environmental Justice Committee Thomas Merton Center, Pittsburgh, PA
Mary Jo Iozzio St. Katharine Drexel Parish, West Roxbury, MA
We need more holy women and men committed to conscientious objection to war and other state-sanctioned violence.
We need more holy women and men committed to conscientious objection to war and other state-sanctioned violence.
daniele Comboni Missionaries, Newark, NJ
Irene Senn Roman Catholic Women Priests, West Allis, WI
Rev. Terrence Moran Office of Peace, Justice, and Ecological Integrity, Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth, Convent Station, NJ
Thomas Sherratt Immaculate Conception Parish, Durham, NC
In this time of relentless conflict the faithful example and prayers of Ben Salmon are especially needed.
In this time of relentless conflict the faithful example and prayers of Ben Salmon are especially needed.
Page and Lauren Salazar St. Rose of Lima Parish, Derwood, MD
Phil Runkel Marquette University Archives, Waukesha, WI
Janet McLaughlin Pax Christi USA, Columbus, OH
Mary Danhauer Nonviolent Owensboro, Owensboro, KY
I certainly support the canonization of this excellent example of the nonviolence of J esus. How necessary this is for us in this day and time.
I certainly support the canonization of this excellent example of the nonviolence of J esus. How necessary this is for us in this day and time.
Mary Julia Bailey Adelphi, MD
Kelly Epstein Pax Christi Houston, Spring, TX
Concetta Smart Pax Christi Seed Planters, Crete, IL
Julie Olzen St. Walter Parish, Roselle, IL
Barbara Martinez Pax Christi USA member, Viroqua, WI
David Lazenski East Aurora, NY
Sarah Nash Coordinator of the IHM Sisters Justice, Peace and Sustainability Office, Monroe, MI
Ramon Nacanaynay Pax Christi USA, Long Beach, MS
Wars are obsolete traditions for resolving conflicts.
Wars are obsolete traditions for resolving conflicts.
Rev Dr Joseph Oechsle Villanova University, Norristown, PA
Edward E Stevens St Joseph Church, Bridgton, ME
It is possible to be a radical disciple of the non-violent Jesus and a practicing Catholic as well.
It is possible to be a radical disciple of the non-violent Jesus and a practicing Catholic as well.
Carolyn Mullally St. Mary Catholic Church, Champaign, IL
JV Connors Interpersonal Peace Center, Silver City, NM
We need this to help turn the world.
We need this to help turn the world.
Paul Jones Our Lady of Holy Rosary + St. Richard Catholic Church, Miami, FL
Living Christ's message of non-violence and war in this violent world takes courage. To die for the Gospel of Peace causes one to be a martyr for Christ - and Eternal Life awaits all martyrs.
Ben, in his life and example, shows us how to live the Word of Christ and how to seek to overcome evil with good. State-sanctioned murder - whether through war or capital punishment - is still murder - and Ben chose to not fear those who could take his life so that he would not lose his Soul by following the nonviolent Jesus.
Living Christ's message of non-violence and war in this violent world takes courage. To die for the Gospel of Peace causes one to be a martyr for Christ - and Eternal Life awaits all martyrs.
Ben, in his life and example, shows us how to live the Word of Christ and how to seek to overcome evil with good. State-sanctioned murder - whether through war or capital punishment - is still murder - and Ben chose to not fear those who could take his life so that he would not lose his Soul by following the nonviolent Jesus.
Barbara Hansen, OP Member of Dominican Sisters - Grand Rapids, MI
At this time, more than ever before, we need examples of men and women who recognize the immorality of war, not only in its killing of others including civilians, but also the cost of war in financial terms. These costs deprive millions of education, life's necessities and care of our earth.
At this time, more than ever before, we need examples of men and women who recognize the immorality of war, not only in its killing of others including civilians, but also the cost of war in financial terms. These costs deprive millions of education, life's necessities and care of our earth.
Robert Podzikowski Pax Christi Michigan, Oak Park, MI
Neville D'Souza Troy, MI
Thanks to Benjamin for being a faithful and prophetic witness to Jesus in the gospel of non-violence.
Thanks to Benjamin for being a faithful and prophetic witness to Jesus in the gospel of non-violence.
Kathy Goodman Sacred Heart Parish, Union, OR
Ben Salmon was a courageous follower of Jesus.. May we also follow Jesus in non-violence.
Ben Salmon was a courageous follower of Jesus.. May we also follow Jesus in non-violence.
J. Venneman Nazareth, KY
It is imperative that young people be given examples of peace-making and an example whereby their conscience for the good of peace is affirmed.
It is imperative that young people be given examples of peace-making and an example whereby their conscience for the good of peace is affirmed.
Carolynn Mcdonnell Mercy Associate, Oak Lawn, IL
To hold up heroes & saints for Peace is essential for the morality of our world .
To hold up heroes & saints for Peace is essential for the morality of our world .
Sr. Patricia Chappell, SNDDeN Pax Christi USA, Maryland
Elizabeth Gavula St. Genevieve Parish, Flourtown, PA
The only way true peace will come to our troubled planet is if courageous people like Ben Salmon are raised up to replace military heroes.
The only way true peace will come to our troubled planet is if courageous people like Ben Salmon are raised up to replace military heroes.
Donna M. Williams, SLW Sisters of the Living Word, Savage, MN
Francis Joseph McLaughlin Christ the King Parish, Nashville, TN
The world and the Church are hungry for faithful witnesses to nonviolence and peace.
The world and the Church are hungry for faithful witnesses to nonviolence and peace.
Paulette Bailey Lewiston, ME
Mary Smith Ordo Secular Franciscan, Rochester, NY
As followers of St Francis, we OSF members support non violence.
As followers of St Francis, we OSF members support non violence.
Matthew O'Connell Physician, Kettering, OH
Michael Boylan Marymount University, Arlington, VA
Mary Liepold Secular Franciscan (ofs), Silver Spring, MD
We need Ben's example of moral courage, especially in these times!
We need Ben's example of moral courage, especially in these times!
Fr. Thomas Krieg Diocese of La Crosse, Eau Claire, WI
Kay Arnold Pax Christi Austin, Austin, TX
The example of Ben Salmon is crucial in this time of condoned violence. It is time for the Catholic Church to return to its legitimate roots and proclaim the sainthood of someone like Salmon who suffered and died for his belief and following of the nonviolent Jesus.
The example of Ben Salmon is crucial in this time of condoned violence. It is time for the Catholic Church to return to its legitimate roots and proclaim the sainthood of someone like Salmon who suffered and died for his belief and following of the nonviolent Jesus.
Daniel O'Donnell Passionist, Chicago, IL
Nicholas Mele Church of the Assumption, Bellingham, WA
Bob Zeigler Olympia, WA
Stephen V. Kobasa St. Thomas More Chapel, Yale University, New Haven, CT
Long overdue, but particularly timely.
Long overdue, but particularly timely.
Lois Mills St. James Cathedral, Orlando, FL
The example of Ben Salmon is crucial in this time of condoned violence.
The example of Ben Salmon is crucial in this time of condoned violence.
Deacon Garth Gillan Diocese of Belleville, IL
Matthew 25 tells us that the Lord identifies himself with those in need to whom we must extend ourselves. War is a rejection of that posture. War is the rejection of God’s offer of love.
Matthew 25 tells us that the Lord identifies himself with those in need to whom we must extend ourselves. War is a rejection of that posture. War is the rejection of God’s offer of love.
Agatha Forest St. Clement Catholic Church, Chicago, IL
All acts of violence are contrary to Christ's teachings, including the violence that is inherent in war. Ben Salmon should be canonized for his willingness to suffer and die rather than to do what he knew was forbidden by Christ.
All acts of violence are contrary to Christ's teachings, including the violence that is inherent in war. Ben Salmon should be canonized for his willingness to suffer and die rather than to do what he knew was forbidden by Christ.
Evalyn R Ryan St. Barnabas, Greensboro, NC
I SUPPORT CANONIZATION OF BEN SALMON. THANK YOU!
I SUPPORT CANONIZATION OF BEN SALMON. THANK YOU!
Father Joseph Patrick Keenan. S.T. Missionary Servants of the Most Holy Trinity, Adelphi, MD
Knowledge of Ben Salmon needs to be spread throughout our Church and World. Our age needs to know of his message of peace and nonviolence especially when we, as a country, are fixated on war and violence. There is Christ's way, the Way of Peace which Ben's life shows us is possible.
Knowledge of Ben Salmon needs to be spread throughout our Church and World. Our age needs to know of his message of peace and nonviolence especially when we, as a country, are fixated on war and violence. There is Christ's way, the Way of Peace which Ben's life shows us is possible.
Eileen McCann, CSJ Pax Christi Metro, Brooklyn, NY
Ned Buchbinder St. Frances Cabrini Parish, West Bend, WI
A friend and I started Draft Counseling at the U. of Notre Dame 1967-68. I served as a Consientious Objector as a Peace Corps volunteer, teaching in India for 2 years.
A friend and I started Draft Counseling at the U. of Notre Dame 1967-68. I served as a Consientious Objector as a Peace Corps volunteer, teaching in India for 2 years.
Art Laffin Dorothy Day Catholic Worker, Washington, DC
Carl Stacy My La Verna Fraternity, OFS, Charlottesville, VA
Mary Ryan-Hotchkiss Catholic, Portland, OR
I am inspired by his peacemaking actions. We American Catholics need a saint that shows us how to resist the anti-life militaristic approach to our neighbors, brothers and sisters.
I am inspired by his peacemaking actions. We American Catholics need a saint that shows us how to resist the anti-life militaristic approach to our neighbors, brothers and sisters.
David OBrien Project Lift, St. Vincent de Paul parish, Loyola Press Speakers Corp, Oxford, FL
Fran Kean St. Mary Cathedral, Cheyenne, WY
Connie Meixner St. Paul Parish, IL
James Dempsey Pax Christi, Orange, CA
Ben Salmon's life & witness is an important example for our current generation when so much violence & warfare is taking place.
Ben Salmon's life & witness is an important example for our current generation when so much violence & warfare is taking place.
James Dempsey Xavier University; St. Vincent De Paul Cincinnati; St. Leo the Great Parish, Cincinnati, OH
Maureen Jessnik Sister of Mercy of the Americas, Syosset, NY
We need to highlight those who willingly sacrifice to create peace rather than engage in war.
We need to highlight those who willingly sacrifice to create peace rather than engage in war.
Jim Murphy Sts. Anthony and Philip Parish, Highland, WI
We are in a period of constant war and we need to lift up alternatives to violence.
We are in a period of constant war and we need to lift up alternatives to violence.
Lori Fedewa Grand Rapids, MI
Michael Fuchs St. Francis, Knightdale, NC
Matthew Broeren Spiritans (novice), Chicago, IL
Julie Fissinger St. Boniface, Brooklyn, NY
Dorothy S. Courtis Bellingham, WA
Patrick Henry Walla Walla, WA
Peace has always been the basis of the Gospels. Recent Popes have turned against the "Just War" theories. It's time to found our ethics on the nonviolent message of the Gospels. The call to peace and the nonviolent resolution of international conflicts has never been needed more than it is today when nations are rebuilding nuclear weapons and withdrawing from treaties formed to help to encourage peaceful coexistence of all nations. The Church has officially called for Gospel nonviolence as the path to peace. Ben Salmon got there before most of us and the Church itself. Let's reward this luminary for his example.
Peace has always been the basis of the Gospels. Recent Popes have turned against the "Just War" theories. It's time to found our ethics on the nonviolent message of the Gospels. The call to peace and the nonviolent resolution of international conflicts has never been needed more than it is today when nations are rebuilding nuclear weapons and withdrawing from treaties formed to help to encourage peaceful coexistence of all nations. The Church has officially called for Gospel nonviolence as the path to peace. Ben Salmon got there before most of us and the Church itself. Let's reward this luminary for his example.
Michael J. Kelly Harper Woods, MI
Ben Salmon clearly stands among the cloud of witnesses of the gospel of peace preached by the Bringer of Peace. Forwarding his cause for beatification is a concrete way for the Catholic Church to stand with him as an example for all who have ears to hear and hearts to respond.
Ben Salmon clearly stands among the cloud of witnesses of the gospel of peace preached by the Bringer of Peace. Forwarding his cause for beatification is a concrete way for the Catholic Church to stand with him as an example for all who have ears to hear and hearts to respond.
Ed Kinane Upstate Drone Action, Syracuse, NY
As a born-catholic, long disillusioned with the US Catholic hierarchy, i am heartened by this initiative
to hold up for emulation Ben Salmon, who lived the moral dimension of his Catholic faith.
As a born-catholic, long disillusioned with the US Catholic hierarchy, i am heartened by this initiative
to hold up for emulation Ben Salmon, who lived the moral dimension of his Catholic faith.
Luz Marina Bazalar Shrine of St. Joseph, Stirling, NJ
Jerome Kodell, OSB Subiaco Anbey, Subiaco, AR
Steven Vesely Missionary Servants of the Most Holy Trinity, Silver Spring, MD
With an even greater cry for peace and justice, we need a saint like Ben Salmon!
With an even greater cry for peace and justice, we need a saint like Ben Salmon!
Kip Corriveau Espiritu Santo, Palm Harbor, FL
Shelley Douglass Mary's House Catholic worker, Birmingham, AL
This man was clearly someone who lived his faith to the point of total sacrifice in love for his brothers and sisters. His refusal to kill is a great & important lesson for the church today.
This man was clearly someone who lived his faith to the point of total sacrifice in love for his brothers and sisters. His refusal to kill is a great & important lesson for the church today.
John and Ann Marie Judson Pax Christi Harrisburg, Mechanicsburg, PA
Benjamin Salmon followed the nonviolent teachings of Jesus, the Prince of Peace.
Benjamin Salmon followed the nonviolent teachings of Jesus, the Prince of Peace.
Br. Michael Gosch, CSV Viatorians, Chicago, IL
Catherine Beal St. James, Novi, MI
Rev. Paul Jarvis Parish Community of St. Bridget, Minneapolis, MN
Mary Rozzano Sister of Mercy, Burlingame, CA
Carmelo Tabone Arts Team, Springfield, NJ
Wayne F Porter Worcester, MA
Maureen Prest Citizens for Peace, Farmington Hills, MI
John Wierwille Epiphany Episcopal Church, Atlanta, GA
Amen and amen to telling the story of this man's faith far and wide. THIS is a hero of Jesus' faith - a man who was willing to embrace prison and accept a death penalty rather than wear an army uniform or take up arms against his fellow men.
Amen and amen to telling the story of this man's faith far and wide. THIS is a hero of Jesus' faith - a man who was willing to embrace prison and accept a death penalty rather than wear an army uniform or take up arms against his fellow men.
Father William T. Kremmell retired, Archdiocese of Boston, Middleboro, MA
Today, more than ever, we need to stand up with Ben Salmon and say "No" to all violence!
Today, more than ever, we need to stand up with Ben Salmon and say "No" to all violence!
Kent Ferris, OFS Muscatine, IA
As a diocesan director of Social Action, as a Secular Franciscan, as a Catholic who believes in Gospel Nonviolence, I wholeheartedly sign in support of the cause for canonization for Ben Salmon.
As a diocesan director of Social Action, as a Secular Franciscan, as a Catholic who believes in Gospel Nonviolence, I wholeheartedly sign in support of the cause for canonization for Ben Salmon.
Barbara Richardson Non-Profit - Holy Ground PBC, West Palm Beach, FL
The courage it took to follow his conscience during a time of war must be validated for all who serve in the military. Ben's nonviolent stance must be validated by the Catholic Church as a call to the way we, as Catholics, must respond when required to kill or harm other human beings.
The courage it took to follow his conscience during a time of war must be validated for all who serve in the military. Ben's nonviolent stance must be validated by the Catholic Church as a call to the way we, as Catholics, must respond when required to kill or harm other human beings.
Noreen Ringlein Order of Secular Franciscans, Petaluma, CA
Ben Salmon was truly a courageous man filled with the peace of Christ. He deeply understood the message of nonviolence. He should be a revered saint for all ages. Peace and All Good.
Ben Salmon was truly a courageous man filled with the peace of Christ. He deeply understood the message of nonviolence. He should be a revered saint for all ages. Peace and All Good.
Dr Nancy Spence Cincinnati, OH
Nathaniel Marx Saint Meinrad Seminary & School of Theology, St. Meinrad, IN
Linda Szocik Sister of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis, Saint Francis, WI
He is a witness and example in the call of peacemaking.
He is a witness and example in the call of peacemaking.
Marilynn V Snider Immaculate Conception St Joseph Parish, Chicago, IL
Phyllis Turner Jepson Pax Christi Florida, West Palm Beach, FL
Mary Johnson Pax Christi, Mount Kisco, NY
My father, a WWII-era veteran, said when we declared war on Iraq, "There is no justification for war in the New Testament. None". He was right, and so was Mr. Salmon. This good man should be remembered as the Saint he was.
My father, a WWII-era veteran, said when we declared war on Iraq, "There is no justification for war in the New Testament. None". He was right, and so was Mr. Salmon. This good man should be remembered as the Saint he was.
Joseph R. Wenderoth Retired -- Archdiocese of Baltimore, Timonium, MD
Fr. James Gutting Holy Redeemer Church, Warren, PA
War never leads to peace!
War never leads to peace!
Thomas J Kennedy St. John the Baptist Parish, El Cerrito, CA
Mary M Martin SSJ Franciscan Church, Huntington Beach, CA
My husband, Jim Aspaas, and I are highly in favor of endorsing cause for Ben Salmon. Torin Finney wrote an excellent biography of Ben Salmon, "Unsung Hero of the Great War: The Life and Witness of Ben Salmon", which was published June 1, 1989 and we were able to read. Ben Salmon suffered greatly and died a very premature death resulting from the tortures that he endured from his stance of non-violence. He is an outstanding example of a courageous man who followed Jesus' teachings in the Gospels.
Note: "Unsung Hero of the Great War" can be read here.
Ben Salmon was a martyr for the Gospel of Jesus. His health was ruined by the tortures that he endured as a pacifist during WWI which resulted in a very early death. He lived Jesus' words and suffered the loss of his life eventually. His family, wife and children, suffered as he took a stance that was against the US government and the Catholic church, which he loved. He is a modern day saint and needs to be acknowledged.
My husband, Jim Aspaas, and I are highly in favor of endorsing cause for Ben Salmon. Torin Finney wrote an excellent biography of Ben Salmon, "Unsung Hero of the Great War: The Life and Witness of Ben Salmon", which was published June 1, 1989 and we were able to read. Ben Salmon suffered greatly and died a very premature death resulting from the tortures that he endured from his stance of non-violence. He is an outstanding example of a courageous man who followed Jesus' teachings in the Gospels.
Note: "Unsung Hero of the Great War" can be read here.
Ben Salmon was a martyr for the Gospel of Jesus. His health was ruined by the tortures that he endured as a pacifist during WWI which resulted in a very early death. He lived Jesus' words and suffered the loss of his life eventually. His family, wife and children, suffered as he took a stance that was against the US government and the Catholic church, which he loved. He is a modern day saint and needs to be acknowledged.
David Borzenski St. Therese of Lisieux Catholic Church, Lansing, MI
Robert Graf St. Benedict the Moor Parish, Milwaukee, WI
We need a saint who practiced and suffered for the nonviolence of Jesus Christ.
We need a saint who practiced and suffered for the nonviolence of Jesus Christ.
Andrew Lanier Jr. San Jose Catholic Worker, San Jose, CA
Patricia A. Hughes Human, Rensselaer, NY
I counseled for those seeking CO status during Vietnam era. Blessed are those who stand for peace; holy are those who teach non-violence by their life.
I counseled for those seeking CO status during Vietnam era. Blessed are those who stand for peace; holy are those who teach non-violence by their life.
Charles Haddox Pax Christi El Paso, El Paso, TX
Jozef Timmers Chicago, IL
Patricia Krommer CSJ Sisters of St. Joseph, Los Angeles, CA
Conscience is paramount in a person's life. Adherence to it is essential. It's a moral responsibility. Therefore, persons who petition for Conscientious Objector Status should be respected and confirmed.
Conscience is paramount in a person's life. Adherence to it is essential. It's a moral responsibility. Therefore, persons who petition for Conscientious Objector Status should be respected and confirmed.
John Tischhauser St. John XXIII, Albuquerque, NM
Mary Kay Crowther Old St. Josephs's, Philadelphia, PA
Donald Russo NY
Nancy A. O'Connell Norman, OK
Alan Mytty St. Vincent de Paul Parish, The Villages, FL
A way to end war is to say no to war.
A way to end war is to say no to war.
Sister Kay O'Neil Presentation Sisters of Blessed Virgin Mary, LeSueur, MN
Prayers that our Nonviolent Jesus will move this action and encourage all "no more war!"
Prayers that our Nonviolent Jesus will move this action and encourage all "no more war!"
Sister Michelle Meyers Presentation Sisters of Blessed Virgin Mary, LeSueur, MN
Jean Sammon Pax Christi, Washington, DC
Some of my ancestors spelled our last name Salmon, so I like to believe that I am related to Ben.
He is already a saint of the Catholic Nonviolence movement. It would be good for the institutional Catholic Church to confirm that.
Some of my ancestors spelled our last name Salmon, so I like to believe that I am related to Ben.
He is already a saint of the Catholic Nonviolence movement. It would be good for the institutional Catholic Church to confirm that.
Diane Smith, CSJ Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, Sherman Oaks, CA
Mimi McKindley-Ward Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, Mount Rainier, WA
Bernadette Powell Pax Christi, New Orleans, LA
George W Rodkey Pax Christi Tacoma, Tacoma, WA
Daryl Denning Veterans For Peace, Corning, NY
With 90% of civilians representing the war dead since the 1990s, and endless wars, Ben Salmon's conscientious stand with World War I was prophetic about the massive toll on innocent lives. His willingness to sacrifice his own life to save others with devotion to his faith sends a clear message. His actions speak louder than words. I pray the Church will do the same, through God's grace.
With 90% of civilians representing the war dead since the 1990s, and endless wars, Ben Salmon's conscientious stand with World War I was prophetic about the massive toll on innocent lives. His willingness to sacrifice his own life to save others with devotion to his faith sends a clear message. His actions speak louder than words. I pray the Church will do the same, through God's grace.
James M Neafsey Holy Spirit Parish, Berkeley, CA
Michael St Jacques St. George Romanian Byzantine Catholic Church, Aurora, IL
I was a public non-registrant conscientious objector during the Vietnam conflict. Ben Salmon’s life and example was one of the reasons I refused to register for the draft and to do that publicly.
I was a public non-registrant conscientious objector during the Vietnam conflict. Ben Salmon’s life and example was one of the reasons I refused to register for the draft and to do that publicly.
William Schulze Catholic Church of St. Mary, Cherry Hill,NJ
James Arenz St. Canera, Neosho, MO
I believe Ben Salmon represents a true witness of Jesus’s gospel of love of God and humanity though nonviolence.
I believe Ben Salmon represents a true witness of Jesus’s gospel of love of God and humanity though nonviolence.
Father Paul Mark Schwan Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance, Vina, CA
Ernesto Stolpe Tyrone, NM
Praise Benjamin Joseph Salmon as he now enjoys the shores of unceasing praise.
Praise Benjamin Joseph Salmon as he now enjoys the shores of unceasing praise.
Michael Peter Chew Our Beloved Lady Parish, Stuttgart, Germany
He took Jesus seriously when he said, "Love your enemies."
He took Jesus seriously when he said, "Love your enemies."
Lorraine Leibold, OPSisters of St. Dominic, Amityville, NY
Thomas Nelson CM Congregation of the Mission, Denver, CO
Cathy Schwinden Social Justice Coordinator, Nativity Catholic Church, Fargo, ND
Julia Walsh FSPA Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, Arbor Vitae, WI
Rev. Gregg D. Wood, SJ Society of Jesus, USWEST Province, Bethel, AK
The story tells me that Ben showed ordinary faith in extraordinary times.
The story tells me that Ben showed ordinary faith in extraordinary times.
Michael Stypula Holy Apostles Parish, Pittsburgh, PA
Mary Ann C. Holtz St. Paul's in St Petersburg, FL; Pax Christi Florida
It is especially important that we offer our next generations of Catholics models of saints whose lives addressed the pressing issues of our time.
It is especially important that we offer our next generations of Catholics models of saints whose lives addressed the pressing issues of our time.
Rosemarie Pace Pax Christi Metro New York, NY
We NEED this recognition of the primacy of nonviolence in our Catholic faith. Ben Salmon is a most appropriate and worthy face of Catholic nonviolence, a truly saintly man.
We NEED this recognition of the primacy of nonviolence in our Catholic faith. Ben Salmon is a most appropriate and worthy face of Catholic nonviolence, a truly saintly man.
Richard M Nahmanosa the Augustinians, Bronx, NY
Beti Leone Christian Life Community, Fresno, CA
Thanks for sharing the letter and the cause for sainthood of Benjamin Joseph Salmon. Although there were several Conscientious Objectors in my own family (uncle during WW II and 3 brothers during Vietnam War), I knew nothing about B.J. Salmon. Very good, very important for all to know his story. Thank you!
Thanks for sharing the letter and the cause for sainthood of Benjamin Joseph Salmon. Although there were several Conscientious Objectors in my own family (uncle during WW II and 3 brothers during Vietnam War), I knew nothing about B.J. Salmon. Very good, very important for all to know his story. Thank you!
Patricia Belongie Pax Christi Fox Valley, Oshkosh, WI
During this time of unceasing war and violence, we need now more than ever to honor those who have been willing to sacrifice their own lives for peace in our world. Benjamin Joseph Salmon was truly a man who reflected God's love in the world and is most worthy of sainthood.
During this time of unceasing war and violence, we need now more than ever to honor those who have been willing to sacrifice their own lives for peace in our world. Benjamin Joseph Salmon was truly a man who reflected God's love in the world and is most worthy of sainthood.
William Mulcahey St. Matthew Parish, Cedar Rapids, IA
As the military budget increases in the US, the canonization of Ben not only will recognize his holiness but will encourage young Americans to see active non-violence as an option for themselves.
As the military budget increases in the US, the canonization of Ben not only will recognize his holiness but will encourage young Americans to see active non-violence as an option for themselves.
Joyce Radtke St. Charles Borromeo, Milwaukee, WI
Bill Engels Oblate of St. Benedict, Subiaco Abbey, Subiaco, AR
William Waters Pax Christi Rhode Island, Rumford, RI
Beverly Goodrich Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Grand Junction, CO
Bro. Anthony Zuba, OFM Cap. Capuchin Franciscans, Province of St. Mary, New York, NY
Joan Benevento Pax Christi Metro New York, NY
Cathy Rowan Pax Christi Metro New York, NY
Mary Colleen McCann Pax Christi of Harrisburg, PA
Especially in today's world of incivility and violence, we need the example of Benjamin Joseph Salmon to give us all the strength to work toward a better world.
Especially in today's world of incivility and violence, we need the example of Benjamin Joseph Salmon to give us all the strength to work toward a better world.
Sr. Kari Pohl Sisters of St. Joseph of Baden, Aliquippa, PA
Mark Cappetta Parishioner, Rancho Mirage, CA
Rosemary l Boutt National Shrine of the Little Flower Basilica, Royal Oak, MI
A true follower of Jesus.
A true follower of Jesus.
Margaret A. Flanagan Pax Christi Canton, OH, Parma, OH
Working for peace and justice for all using active nonviolence is something we all need to do. Having the example of Ben Salmon is an excellent way to encourage others to follow in Jesus' footsteps.
Ben Salmon's witness to the nonviolence of Jesus is a true example that we can all follow. We need more saints who were lay people like most of us, to show us that we are required to listen to God and follow Christ's non violent example, even to dying for our faith.
Please begin the process of making Ben Salmon a saint, as he followed Jesus' way of nonviolence, refusing to use violence in any way.
Working for peace and justice for all using active nonviolence is something we all need to do. Having the example of Ben Salmon is an excellent way to encourage others to follow in Jesus' footsteps.
Ben Salmon's witness to the nonviolence of Jesus is a true example that we can all follow. We need more saints who were lay people like most of us, to show us that we are required to listen to God and follow Christ's non violent example, even to dying for our faith.
Please begin the process of making Ben Salmon a saint, as he followed Jesus' way of nonviolence, refusing to use violence in any way.
Mary Geraets Presentation Sisters, Aberdeen, SD
Lois Hatten St. Mark's Parish, Boise, ID
Frances Lombaer Adrian Dominican Sister, Adrian, MI
Nonviolence is integral to peace-building. Thanks.
Nonviolence is integral to peace-building. Thanks.
Fr. Tom Lumpkin Archdiocese of Detroit - Association of US Catholic Priests, Detroit, MI
Chris Koellhoffer, IHM Sisters of IHM, Carbondale, PA
Mary Lou Bolfik CCSFX, Pikesville, MD
Janice Cebula, OSF Sisters of St. Francis, Clinton, IA
Ryan Di Corpo Fordham University, Bronx, NY
The nonviolent witness of Benjamin Salmon, which influenced the faith of Daniel Berrigan and countless others, bears increased relevance in a time marked by violence against the least of God's children.
The nonviolent witness of Benjamin Salmon, which influenced the faith of Daniel Berrigan and countless others, bears increased relevance in a time marked by violence against the least of God's children.
Deacon Timothy and Mrs. Cecilia Marcy Notre Dame Parish, Greeneville, TN
Mary Ann Haske Sacred Heart Parish, Perry St., Richmond, VA
Mary-Ellen Francoeur Sisters of Service, Pax Christi Toronto, Canada
It is wonderful to have another example of courageous active non-violence at a time when there is a strong attitude that refusal to fight in war is unpatriotic. Ben had understood the heart of the message and life of Jesus.
I strongly support his recognition as a saint.
It is wonderful to have another example of courageous active non-violence at a time when there is a strong attitude that refusal to fight in war is unpatriotic. Ben had understood the heart of the message and life of Jesus.
I strongly support his recognition as a saint.
Evelyn Lamoureax Daughters of Wisdom, Levittown, NY
Ellen Ochs St. Gregory's Parish, Dorchester, MA
Patrick O'Neill Fr. Charlie Mulholland Catholic Worker, Garner, NC
Ben was a prophet of the gospel of nonviolence.
Ben was a prophet of the gospel of nonviolence.
Ralph Gerace St. Batholomew Parish, Scotch Plains, NJ
Fr. Felix Just, SJ Jesuits West USA, San Francisco, CA
Dr. Joseph Fahey Pax Christi USA Ambassador of Peace, Venice, FL
I have carefully researched Ben Salmon's life and writings. He is exemplary in every way and a model for young people when faced with the draft or military service. He is a model for all Catholics and has much to teach us about courage.
I have carefully researched Ben Salmon's life and writings. He is exemplary in every way and a model for young people when faced with the draft or military service. He is a model for all Catholics and has much to teach us about courage.
Maureen E. O'Reilly Dearborn, MI
Olga V, Sarabia, LCSW Pax Christi Southern California, Pasadena, CA
A Spirituality of Non-Violence as exemplified by Benjamin Joseph Salmon is crucial for us to promote always in our Church. How wonderful for us to be able to turn to Mr. Salmon's life in our prayers as a true example of such.
Please expedite the process of his Beatification & Sainthood.
A Spirituality of Non-Violence as exemplified by Benjamin Joseph Salmon is crucial for us to promote always in our Church. How wonderful for us to be able to turn to Mr. Salmon's life in our prayers as a true example of such.
Please expedite the process of his Beatification & Sainthood.
Sr. Ann Redig Sisters of St. Francis, Rochester, MN
Mary Lou and Phyllis Grady Catholic Peace Fellowship/Pax Christi, Philadelphia, PA
It is a very important move now to promote the sanctity of a C.O. from WW I. Ben Salmon needs to be known by all Catholics clergy and lay.
It is a very important move now to promote the sanctity of a C.O. from WW I. Ben Salmon needs to be known by all Catholics clergy and lay.
Stefan Herbst Pax Christi Germany, St. Albertus Magnus, Bonn, Germany
I admire Benjamin Joseph Salmon for his decision in this era. His testimony is a sign of the holy spirit. It is important in a time when United States is destroying country after country by war. Testimonies of Benjamin Joseph are urgently needed in time of atomic bombs, drone war and new, more sophisticated arms.
My Father and my Grandfather participated in two world wars. I remember what they told me about war and I decided to become a conscentious objector as so many other of my generation. Benjamin Joseph Salmon was a prophetic man.
I admire Benjamin Joseph Salmon for his decision in this era. His testimony is a sign of the holy spirit. It is important in a time when United States is destroying country after country by war. Testimonies of Benjamin Joseph are urgently needed in time of atomic bombs, drone war and new, more sophisticated arms.
My Father and my Grandfather participated in two world wars. I remember what they told me about war and I decided to become a conscentious objector as so many other of my generation. Benjamin Joseph Salmon was a prophetic man.
Margaret Kavanagh Dominican Sister of Amityville, Hicksville, NY
Honey Theogene Catholic Apostolic Church in North America, Margate, FL
Wallace Inglis Center for Nonviolent Education & Action, Honolulu, HI
Mary Geraghty Holy Name of Jesus Parish, Brooklyn, NY
The courage and the audacity of Ben Salmon reminds us
Christians, that we also must be peacemakers especially in times of turmoil and uncertainty.
The courage and the audacity of Ben Salmon reminds us
Christians, that we also must be peacemakers especially in times of turmoil and uncertainty.
Carrie Biggs-Adams Living School for Action and Contemplation, San Francisco, CA
Thank you for leading on this canonization!
Thank you for leading on this canonization!
Katherine Lind K-12 Educator, Berkeley, CA
Diane Kuc St. Theresa Parish, Camp Hill, PA
Patricia Tweedy Pax Christi Metro New York, NY
Renee Domeier Sister, St. Joseph, MO
Br Jose Barnett Little Brothers of Christ, Los Angeles, CA
He is already a Saint!
He is already a Saint!
Steve Baggarly Norfolk Catholic Worker, Norfolk, VA
His epistle from prison is a spiritual/political classic.
His epistle from prison is a spiritual/political classic.
Marilyn Wilson Sisters of Charity, BVM, Sunnyvale, CA
The Rev David Gierlach Rector, St Elizabeth’s Church, Honolulu, HI
Elizabeth Spiering St John of the Cross, Western Springs, IL
Emily Lippert Pittsburgh, PA
Cecilia Canales Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose, Fremont, CA
Margaret Chisholm St. Raphael School, Manchester, NH
Frank McGinty Philadelphia Catholic Peace Fellowship, Jenkintown, PA
Kathleen Zemcik, OFS Pax Christi Michigan, Owosso, MI
Martin Zatsick Franciscan Friars, TOR, Pittsburgh, PA
I am acting on my belief in Gospel Non-Violence.
I am acting on my belief in Gospel Non-Violence.
Bro. Brian McLauchlin, SVD Divine Word Missionaries, Washington, DC
Charles Orlowicz Public Association of the Christian Faithful, Rutherford, NJ
Robert A. Fambrini, SJ Most Holy Trinity, San Jose, CA
Fr. Bob Wenz Association of United States Catholic Priests, OH
His example is needed in these days, these times, more than any of recent times!
His example is needed in these days, these times, more than any of recent times!
Sister Janice Thome Dominican Sister of Peace, Garden City, KS
I believe with our Pope Francis that war is not justified in our modern times. This man was ahead of his times and a good role model for us all.
I believe with our Pope Francis that war is not justified in our modern times. This man was ahead of his times and a good role model for us all.
Lucy Strausbaugh Middle River, MD
Ellen Rosser St. Aloysius Church, Point Arena, CA
Ben Salmon is a wonderful example for people to follow today when war, especially nuclear war, could mean
the possible end of humankind.
Ben Salmon is a wonderful example for people to follow today when war, especially nuclear war, could mean
the possible end of humankind.
Rhe Kennedy Pax Christi, New York, NY
Sr. Marie Kyle Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, La Crosse, WI
In this day of a violent society, we need saints like Ben.
In this day of a violent society, we need saints like Ben.
John Houser Pax Christi Alabama, Birmingham, AL
Ben Salmon's witness is a blessing to us all.
Ben Salmon's witness is a blessing to us all.
John B. Helm Louisville, KY
Robert Conway Holy Spirit Parish, Tempe, AZ
Sister Gladys Schmitz School Sister of Notre Dame, Mankato, MN
Tomás Bissonnette St. Geertrude Parish, Chicago, IL
Robert J Pizzorno St James in Redondo Beach, Torrance, CA
We need more saints whose lives clearly proclaim the gospel of peace and non-violence!
We need more saints whose lives clearly proclaim the gospel of peace and non-violence!
Carrie Ruel-Flores All Saints, Logansport, IN
Jeffrey M. Kraut St. Rita, Fairfax, CA
Sheilamarie Tobbe Sister, Lyndhurst, NJ
I served in Central America with Ben's daughter, Maryknoll Sister Elizabeth Salmon, and she told me all about her father. I was impressed with his courage and witness and was glad to see that Pax Christi put out a book about him. May his canonization process be blessed by Monsenor Romero and Paul VI whose Canonization is being celebrated this weekend as Witnesses of Peace rooted in Justice.
I served in Central America with Ben's daughter, Maryknoll Sister Elizabeth Salmon, and she told me all about her father. I was impressed with his courage and witness and was glad to see that Pax Christi put out a book about him. May his canonization process be blessed by Monsenor Romero and Paul VI whose Canonization is being celebrated this weekend as Witnesses of Peace rooted in Justice.
Mary Alice Power Pax Christi Michigan, Farmington, MI
Patricia Pruitt St. Edmund Parish, Oak Park, IL
John Swanson Pax Christi, Los Angeles, CA
We need to see more saints and holy people that have stood up for non-violence in response to war making. We must not continue supporting wars.
We need to see more saints and holy people that have stood up for non-violence in response to war making. We must not continue supporting wars.
Christopher Smith (The Rev.) Episcopal Church (retired), Amsterdam, NY
As a CO myself (Vietnam era, 1970) I heartily support this effort. While I did not suffer like Benjamin Salmon I did serve two years as a missionary in Brazil (alternative service).
As a CO myself (Vietnam era, 1970) I heartily support this effort. While I did not suffer like Benjamin Salmon I did serve two years as a missionary in Brazil (alternative service).
James M. Deshotels, SJ Reverend, Robertsville, MO
Dennis R Dowell, OFS St. Elizabeth of Hungary Fraternity, O.F.S., Fort Madison, IA
Franciscans have always supported non-violence as a part of our charism. Ben Salmon stood for his belief as well and ought to be recognized for his outstanding commitment to the Church's moral code.
Franciscans have always supported non-violence as a part of our charism. Ben Salmon stood for his belief as well and ought to be recognized for his outstanding commitment to the Church's moral code.
Kathy Early Tidewater Sowers of Justice, Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Virginia Beach, VA
Non violence was what the church was about for the first 300 years. Maybe Ben can help us find our way back to this authentic church!
Non violence was what the church was about for the first 300 years. Maybe Ben can help us find our way back to this authentic church!
Sr. Beverly Anne LoGrasso Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland, PepperPike, OH
Now, more than ever, we need saintly models for peacemaking. Pacem in Terris, the witness of the Gospel, and the level of violence in our world with the presence of nuclear weapons make clear the imperative of raising heroes of conscience like Ben Salmon to the level of sanctity as peacemakers.
Now, more than ever, we need saintly models for peacemaking. Pacem in Terris, the witness of the Gospel, and the level of violence in our world with the presence of nuclear weapons make clear the imperative of raising heroes of conscience like Ben Salmon to the level of sanctity as peacemakers.
Irene S. Dubman North Jewish Chavurah, The Villages, FL
Patricia Delgado Pax Christi El Paso, El Paso, TX
Jim Douglass Mary's House Catholic Worker, Birmingham, AL
Ben Salmon is hope...if we, too, inspired by his solitary witness, can live out the nonviolent cross of Jesus.
Ben Salmon is hope...if we, too, inspired by his solitary witness, can live out the nonviolent cross of Jesus.
Augie Pacetti Diocese of Cleveland, Columbia Station, OH
Deacon Francis Agnoli OFS, Davenport, IA
Joan Inglis RSCJ, Albany, NY
Diana Domingues St. Rose of Lima, Gaithersburg, MD
Michael Moran St. Francis Xavier RC Church, New York, NY
Patricia Shullick Lorain, OH
The powerful witness and sacrifice of Benjamin Salmon is desperately needed in our world and church today. His sainthood is implied by his response to the Gospel and his committed response.
The powerful witness and sacrifice of Benjamin Salmon is desperately needed in our world and church today. His sainthood is implied by his response to the Gospel and his committed response.
Susan Tanguay Associate of Wisdom, Meriden, CT
Daniel Briehl St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception, Avon, OH
Sr. Marilyn Dunn PBVM, Aberdeen, SD
Peter Queenan OFS, Coquitlam, BC
We have to be a Church that promotes peace, and values peacemakers. Especially during this time of increased tension and discord in the world. As followers of Christ how can we be anything but promoters of peace.
We have to be a Church that promotes peace, and values peacemakers. Especially during this time of increased tension and discord in the world. As followers of Christ how can we be anything but promoters of peace.
Mary J. Beaudoin Saint Camillus Parish, Silver Spring, MD
Judy Mugerauer Oshkosh, WI
Jason Gehrig St. George Catholic Parish, Fort Worth, TX
Joan Tirak Pax Christi Lansing, Lansing, MI
Deacon James Ward St. Thomas a'Becket Parish, Archdiocese of Detroit, Canton, MI
Jean Fallon Sister, Ossining, NY
Ben Salmon should stand with Franz Jägerstätter a German who defied Hitler, as a Saint for the USA in these times of endless war! He showed us the teaching of Jesus Christ on PEACE and the command, "Thou shalt not kill."
Ben Salmon should stand with Franz Jägerstätter a German who defied Hitler, as a Saint for the USA in these times of endless war! He showed us the teaching of Jesus Christ on PEACE and the command, "Thou shalt not kill."
Daniel E. Harford Cathedral Basilica, Ponte Vedra, FL
Rev. Francis J. Breen Maryknoll, NY
Ben Salmon was a true profile in courage during the First World War, by being a conscientious objector. That war did not settle anything but only led to more war.
Ben Salmon was a true profile in courage during the First World War, by being a conscientious objector. That war did not settle anything but only led to more war.
Bertha M. Haas St. Alexander Catholic Parish, Cornelius, OR
Both church and state need to begin putting effort into preparation for peace as we do for warfare.
Both church and state need to begin putting effort into preparation for peace as we do for warfare.
Eloise S. Bates St. Philip Neri, Portland, OR
There has never been a time of greater urgency than now to honor a warrior for peace.
There has never been a time of greater urgency than now to honor a warrior for peace.
Joyce Hall Pax Christi Dallas, Dallas, TX
We need more saints who stand up for living one's life nonviolently. Ben is a wonderful example.
We need more saints who stand up for living one's life nonviolently. Ben is a wonderful example.
Miriam Elliott Mennonite Church member, Gainesville, FL
Jean Murin Sisters of Mercy in Pittsburgh and Pax Christi Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
Kathy Sparaco Diocese of Syracuse, East Syracuse, NY
Aetna Thompson St. Rose of Lima, Gaithersburg, MD
Yvonne Mayer Secular Franciscan, Twin Lakes, WI
Dagoberto Martinez Peter & Paul, Merrillville, IN
Men of peace who chose to follow their heart instead of giving in to pressure are worthy of praise.
Men of peace who chose to follow their heart instead of giving in to pressure are worthy of praise.
Lawrence D Berman St. Timothy's, FL
This man is not the usual candidate for sainthood but was a living saint nonetheless while he was still alive.
This man is not the usual candidate for sainthood but was a living saint nonetheless while he was still alive.
William Zaccagnino Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Alexandria, VA
The Catholic catechism should state it is the responsibility of all Catholics to oppose war and commit to not participating in any way.
The Catholic catechism should state it is the responsibility of all Catholics to oppose war and commit to not participating in any way.
Ann Kelly Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland, Pepper Pike, OH
Missy Parkison Diocese of St. Augustine, Jacksonville, FL
Joy Ann Szopinski St. Anthony on the Lake Parish, Pewaukee, WI
The witness of courageous nonviolence is so necessary now, for humanity and for the planet.
The witness of courageous nonviolence is so necessary now, for humanity and for the planet.
Marilyn Gehant Soul Space Interfaith, San Jose, CA
Patricia Ryan Derechos Humanos y Medio Ambiente DHUMA Puno, Peru, Maryknoll, NY
Sister Linda Bessom SNDdeN Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, Co-chair Pax Christi Beverly, MA, Somerville, MA
Laura Wilder Pax Christi Dallas, Garland, TX
Dan Divis AUSCP, St. Mary, Lorain, OH
Janice M. Vanderhaar Memphis, TN
Renzo Sabatini Pax Christi, New York, NY
Frances Forest St. Clement Catholic Church, Chicago, IL
Susan Lee Yukon, OK
Sister Dominica Lo Bianco Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia, Aston, PA
Salmon is a saint for standing up for his beliefs.Ben Salmon has proven his saintliness.
Salmon is a saint for standing up for his beliefs.Ben Salmon has proven his saintliness.
Rosemary Keough Ursuline Sister of Mount St. Joseph, Maple Mount, KY
Jean Mont-Eton San Francisco, CA
Ben Salmon heard the gospel call to nonviolence. Jesus taught such nonviolence by His life and death.
Ben Salmon heard the gospel call to nonviolence. Jesus taught such nonviolence by His life and death.
Francis L. Fried Archdiocese, Saint Paul & Minneapolis, Saint Paul, MN
Cornelia A. Sullivan Pax Christi Boston, Boston, MA
Dorothy Schweitzer, CSJ Sister of St. Joseph of Toronto, Toronto, ON
Charlotte Mates Greatniece of Ben Salmon, Moab, UT
Susanne Chenot, OSB Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
I believe that a man whose convictions are that strong needs to be held up to all of us as a guide in our own lives.
I believe that a man whose convictions are that strong needs to be held up to all of us as a guide in our own lives.
Patricia Colla member - Sisters of Mercy, West Hartford, CT
John Cloninger Pax Christi, Jupiter, FL
I, too, am a conscientious objector for the same reasons that led Joseph Salmon to that position. I had it unbelievably easier during the Vietnam War than he did during WWI, serving alternate duty as a psychiatric aide in a NJ state mental hospital. Joseph's witness during a time of great hostility toward the whole concept of conscientious objection, I believe, constitutes an example of heroic virtue.
I, too, am a conscientious objector for the same reasons that led Joseph Salmon to that position. I had it unbelievably easier during the Vietnam War than he did during WWI, serving alternate duty as a psychiatric aide in a NJ state mental hospital. Joseph's witness during a time of great hostility toward the whole concept of conscientious objection, I believe, constitutes an example of heroic virtue.
Patricia McNeil Sowers' of Justice, Virginia Beach, VA
Please consider Benjamin Joseph Salmon for Roman Catholic Sainthood. He stood firm with Christ, the Catholic Church Social Teaching & his right as a conscientious objector.
Please consider Benjamin Joseph Salmon for Roman Catholic Sainthood. He stood firm with Christ, the Catholic Church Social Teaching & his right as a conscientious objector.
Catherine Malone Granddaughter of Ben Salmon, Winter Park, CO
Stop all wars.
Well, how else can it be?
Can one suffer more than he did?
No.
Amen.
Stop all wars.
Well, how else can it be?
Can one suffer more than he did?
No.
Amen.
Suzanne Fabick Chaplain, Lake Orion, MI
Please honor this courageous person who stood for his principles and conviction.
Please honor this courageous person who stood for his principles and conviction.
Joan Felling St. Benedict's Monastery, St. Joseph, MN
This man, Ben Salmon, took a very courageous stand against war & violence. He is a saint for our time.
This man, Ben Salmon, took a very courageous stand against war & violence. He is a saint for our time.
Edith Cheney Elizabeth, NJ
Benedict Janecko, OSB St. Vincent Archabbey, Latrobe, PA
Sheila Chibnall-Treptow Queen of All Saints Catholic Church, St. Louis, MO
I hope that Ben Salmon will become an official saint of the Catholic church. We need his example more than ever.
I hope that Ben Salmon will become an official saint of the Catholic church. We need his example more than ever.
Fr. John M. Butler Cabot, PA
Donna Grimes USCCB-African American Affairs, Washington, DC
Laurent F. Gilbert, Sr. World Beyond War, The Villages, FL
Michael J. McManus St. Elizabeth of Hungary, Denver, CO
Madeline Labriola St. Clare's Parish, Westerly, RI
We need positive role models who have taken Jesus' message of nonviolence to heart. Here is an example of how one must stand for the law of God before the law of man.
We need positive role models who have taken Jesus' message of nonviolence to heart. Here is an example of how one must stand for the law of God before the law of man.
John Healy Pleck St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, Sandy Springs, GA
Patricia C. Peters Religious Order, Ossining, NY
Rosemary Overton St. Elizabeth, Richmond, VA
Eileen Perkins St. Joseph Parish, Marietta, GA
Judith Albors Fairway, KS
Anna Koop Loretto Community, Denver, CO
Ben Salmon is a wonderful example of how committed one can be to one's belief. He suffered much for his pacifist actions as did his family. We are in an age of huge dysfunction and global threat because we do not hold dear a true commitment to pacifism and nonviolence. There is so much suffering in the world that I can not imagine why anyone would want to ad to it by supporting the notion of war.
Ben Salmon is a wonderful example of how committed one can be to one's belief. He suffered much for his pacifist actions as did his family. We are in an age of huge dysfunction and global threat because we do not hold dear a true commitment to pacifism and nonviolence. There is so much suffering in the world that I can not imagine why anyone would want to ad to it by supporting the notion of war.
Glenn Amorosia St. Therese Parish, Douglasville, GA
George Jacobs St. Luke the Evangelist, Archdiocese of Atlanta, Dahlonega, GA
One of your commentators is right on - if we celebrate those who fight, we must certainly celebrate those who suffer for peace!
One of your commentators is right on - if we celebrate those who fight, we must certainly celebrate those who suffer for peace!
Theresa Sarich Usrsuline Sister of the Roman Union, Alton, IL
Benjamin Joseph Salmon is a witness so greatly needed in our times.
Benjamin Joseph Salmon is a witness so greatly needed in our times.
Carole Lacour Pax Christi USA, Atlanta, GA
Fr. Timothy R. Schott Diocese of Sioux City, IA
Christ: "Love your enemies; do good to those who hate you." Ben Salmon's witness puts flesh and blood on these demanding (but often dismissed) words.
Christ: "Love your enemies; do good to those who hate you." Ben Salmon's witness puts flesh and blood on these demanding (but often dismissed) words.
Rachel Schmidt Pax Christi USA, Washington, DC
Scott Cooper Sacred Heart Parish, Spokane, WA
Diane Tomczak Secular Franciscan Order, Windsor, CA
Ben Salmon followed the spirit of St. Francis, and the true spirit of Christianity for peacemaking. War and killing are never to be accepted as normal. We need a new saint for peace.
Ben Salmon followed the spirit of St. Francis, and the true spirit of Christianity for peacemaking. War and killing are never to be accepted as normal. We need a new saint for peace.
Rev. Luke Hansen, SJ Student, Pontifical Gregorian University, Rome
Fr. Thomas P. Ivory MSGR. Kelley Home for Retired Priests, Caldwell, NJ
Leah Hughes Pax Christi St. Jude, Sandy Springs, GA
Beth Reitz St. Pius X Parish, Indianapolis, IN
Bonnie Mando St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Binghamton, NY
Now, more than ever, war no more.
Now, more than ever, war no more.
Thomas Casey Pax Christi Western New York, East Aurora, NY
Thank you for educating as many US citizens of Ben Salmon's prophetic witness and martyrdom for following Christ's advice to the world, the key to saving all human life.
Thank you for educating as many US citizens of Ben Salmon's prophetic witness and martyrdom for following Christ's advice to the world, the key to saving all human life.
Sister Jeanne Clennon, CSC Sisters of the Holy Cross, Ventura, CA
Roger Donahue Our Lady Of Guadalupe, Ocate, NM
Ellen Finnigan Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church, Estes Park, CO
Ann Pax Holy Comforter Parish, Charlottesville, VA
Teresa McCann St. Joseph Parish, Otis Orchards, WA
What an inspiring example of Gospel nonviolence! May we all have such courage.
What an inspiring example of Gospel nonviolence! May we all have such courage.
Edgar Raúl Hernández Cáritas Verapaz, Rabinal, Baja Verapaz, Guatemala
Apoyo y rezo porque Ben Salmon esté en los altares para nuestra devoción.
Apoyo y rezo porque Ben Salmon esté en los altares para nuestra devoción.
Steve Gude Des Moines Intentional Eucharistic Community, Des Moines, IA
Ben Salmon followed the call of Jesus and Gospel nonviolence. He is a model for all of us to imitate.
Ben Salmon followed the call of Jesus and Gospel nonviolence. He is a model for all of us to imitate.
Gary LaVenture Sacred Heart Parish, Talent, OR
Lucy M. Yatsko Bp Sullivans PC Community, Virginia Beach, VA
Stephen Jacobs St. Francis Catholic Worker, Columbia, MO
Cletus Stein Pax Christi, Amarillo, TX
Unless we follow the teachings of Christ, we cannot be called Christian. He said very strongly in the Gospels that we must not kill and we must love our enemies. Jesus forgave his enemies as they were killing him. Does the Church commit to following that?
Unless we follow the teachings of Christ, we cannot be called Christian. He said very strongly in the Gospels that we must not kill and we must love our enemies. Jesus forgave his enemies as they were killing him. Does the Church commit to following that?
Dr. Anthony J. Masalonis Kingston, PA
Isaiah Shiloh Rapid City, SD
Agnes Brien Ursuline Lay Associates, Wilmington, DE
May Ben Salmon, like Oscar Romero, receive the acknowledgement of all the world that he truly carried on the call of Christ for PEACE.
May Ben Salmon, like Oscar Romero, receive the acknowledgement of all the world that he truly carried on the call of Christ for PEACE.
Sr. Alma Jones, CSJ Church of the Holy Family, Endwell, NY
Karen Friemel Pax Christi, Amarillo, TX
Teresa E. Kuntz Maryknoll Affiliates, Seattle Chapter, Snohomish, WA
Mary Egan St. Teresa of Avila Church, Audubon, PA
Jakob Whitson Des Moines Catholic Worker, Des Moines, IA
Along with Dorothy Day, Ben Salmon is a highly esteemed example of a follower of Jesus that is willing to risk position in society and much more to follow the nonviolent way of Jesus Christ.
Along with Dorothy Day, Ben Salmon is a highly esteemed example of a follower of Jesus that is willing to risk position in society and much more to follow the nonviolent way of Jesus Christ.
Sr. Mary David Hydro, OSB Benedictine Sisters of Florida, St. Leo, FL
We need today models who show us all life is sacred & that the way to Peace is to act for justice. Working for peace means living the Gospel--showing Christ's love to all person. We need this sort of witness to peace. War & killing will never bring us together with God or others.
We need today models who show us all life is sacred & that the way to Peace is to act for justice. Working for peace means living the Gospel--showing Christ's love to all person. We need this sort of witness to peace. War & killing will never bring us together with God or others.
Rev. Robert W. Charm Association of US Catholic Priest, Diocese of Oakland, San Francisco, CA
Geri Braden Religion Teacher, Maywood, NJ
I cannot say it better, "An individual who breaks a law that conscience tells him is unjust, and who willingly accepts the penalty of imprisonment in order to arouse the conscience of the community over its injustice, is in reality expressing the highest respect for the law."
Letter from Birmingham Jail August, 1963
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
I cannot say it better, "An individual who breaks a law that conscience tells him is unjust, and who willingly accepts the penalty of imprisonment in order to arouse the conscience of the community over its injustice, is in reality expressing the highest respect for the law."
Letter from Birmingham Jail August, 1963
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Bishop John Michael Botean Romanian Catholic Diocese/Eparchy of St. George in Canton, Canton, OH
Ben's witness to the Gospel is needed now more than ever in the Church in the United States. Rediscovering the nonviolence of our Lord, Jesus Christ, is key to the recovery of our credibility as His disciples, and promoting the case of Ben Salmon would be a big part of that rediscovery.
Ben's witness to the Gospel is needed now more than ever in the Church in the United States. Rediscovering the nonviolence of our Lord, Jesus Christ, is key to the recovery of our credibility as His disciples, and promoting the case of Ben Salmon would be a big part of that rediscovery.
Andor Komar ICC Parish, Kelowna, BC
I believe that Christ meant for all killing to be wrong, except accidental, while defending yourself from physical harm. Wars are not defensive, when declared against a nation, as the point is to kill the opposition.
I believe that Christ meant for all killing to be wrong, except accidental, while defending yourself from physical harm. Wars are not defensive, when declared against a nation, as the point is to kill the opposition.
Megan Rice Society of the Holy Child Jesus, Transform Now Plowshares, Washington, DC
Ben is our model for acting out our convictions as conscientious objectors to all that harms the sacred gift of Life and in choosing life-enhancing alternatives to all forms of violence. Violence produces violence. Nonviolence generates nonviolence.
Ben is our model for acting out our convictions as conscientious objectors to all that harms the sacred gift of Life and in choosing life-enhancing alternatives to all forms of violence. Violence produces violence. Nonviolence generates nonviolence.
Leslie Johnson Christian, St. Petersburg, FL
Thomas Joyce Oblate Mount Saviour Monastery, Ithaca, NY
Sr. Anne Bosserman, SNJM Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, Spokane, WA
What a profound witness of non-violence Ben Salmon is, which is so needed in today's world.
What a profound witness of non-violence Ben Salmon is, which is so needed in today's world.
Rev. Fr. Paul Dordal Christian Network for Liberation and Equality, Pittsburgh, PA
Deacon James Rauner Diocese of Kalamazoo, Michigan, Pax Christi Michigan State Council, Watervliet, MI
Clare Grady Kings Bay Plowshares actor, Ithaca, NY
Thanks to Ben’s family and all those who have worked tirelessly to keep Ben's story alive...
And going wide.
Thanks to Ben’s family and all those who have worked tirelessly to keep Ben's story alive...
And going wide.
Robert Ellsberg Publisher, Orbis Books, Sleepy Hollow, NY
Ben Salmon was one of the great witnesses to the Gospel message of nonviolence. Far in advance of official Catholic teaching, he anticipated the teaching of Vatican II on the right of conscientious objection, and prepared the way for such voices as Blessed Franz Jägerstätter, Servant of God Dorothy Day, Thomas Merton, and Pope Francis. His beatification would enlighten the American Catholics and make an important contribution to advancing the peace mission of the church.
Ben Salmon was one of the great witnesses to the Gospel message of nonviolence. Far in advance of official Catholic teaching, he anticipated the teaching of Vatican II on the right of conscientious objection, and prepared the way for such voices as Blessed Franz Jägerstätter, Servant of God Dorothy Day, Thomas Merton, and Pope Francis. His beatification would enlighten the American Catholics and make an important contribution to advancing the peace mission of the church.
Susan Draperu Saint Francis Xavier, Brooklyn, NY
Support and promote peacemakers like Ben Salmon.
Support and promote peacemakers like Ben Salmon.
Jeffry Odell Korgen St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish, Montclair, NJ
An important life to imitate!
An important life to imitate!
Maria-Pilar Chamorro Carmelite Sisters of Charity, Washington, DC
Mary Rider Father Charlie Mulholland Catholic Worker, Garner, NC
Don and Roberta Timmerman Milwaukee, WI
This saint needs to be recognized. He is one who truly practiced his Christianity. The Church needs to be reminded the main command of Christ to love all, both friend and enemy, AND DO GOOD TO THOSE WHO HARM US. This message has been ignored too long in the Church.
This saint needs to be recognized. He is one who truly practiced his Christianity. The Church needs to be reminded the main command of Christ to love all, both friend and enemy, AND DO GOOD TO THOSE WHO HARM US. This message has been ignored too long in the Church.
Scott Mathern-Jacobson Presentation Prayer Center, Fargo, ND
Michael Huber-Kirchberger Pax Christi Austria, Pichl, Austria
I learned about Ben Salmon when a lecture by Prof. Baxter was held during the Jägerstätter memorial event in Austria a few years ago. I had the honour of translating the lecture into German and was fascinated by the courage and the personality of Ben Salmon. He is a true witness of Chritian belief.
I learned about Ben Salmon when a lecture by Prof. Baxter was held during the Jägerstätter memorial event in Austria a few years ago. I had the honour of translating the lecture into German and was fascinated by the courage and the personality of Ben Salmon. He is a true witness of Chritian belief.
Deacon Henry J. Knapp church of St. Mary Immaculate Heart, Sioux Falls, SD
I will pray for Ben's canonization.
Pope Francis' desire to canonize non-martyr witnesses to the Gospel bodes well for Ben's cause.
I will pray for Ben's canonization.
Pope Francis' desire to canonize non-martyr witnesses to the Gospel bodes well for Ben's cause.
Tim Mathern North Dakota Senator, Fargo, ND
The casualties of war go way beyond the battlefield as recognized in the many services needed by veteran's and families even decades after military intervention. Mr. Salmon's work to prevent war and killing is indeed a cause for sainthood.
The casualties of war go way beyond the battlefield as recognized in the many services needed by veteran's and families even decades after military intervention. Mr. Salmon's work to prevent war and killing is indeed a cause for sainthood.
Max Obuszewski Baltimore Nonviolence Center, Baltimore, MD
We must continue to honor the pacifists. Ben will always be a hero.
We must continue to honor the pacifists. Ben will always be a hero.
Fr. Regis Ryan President, Association of Pittsburgh Priests, Pittsburgh, PA
Fr. John Oesterle Co-chair, Church Renewal Committee, Association of Pittsburgh Priests, Pittsburgh, PA
Fr. Gary Dorsey Pastor Emeritus, St. Ursula Parish, Diocese of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
Henry M. Stoever Peaceworks, Kansas City, Overland Park, KS
In 1970, I met with my draft board face to face, and I was given conscientious objector status. I performed alternative service for two years at the University of Kansas Medical Center. As an attorney, I have assisted a number of plow-share activists in Federal Court in the Kansas City area, as well as 125 trespass actions at the local nuclear weapons parts plant, I have been arrested three times, and my wife and I are tax-resisters.
In 1970, I met with my draft board face to face, and I was given conscientious objector status. I performed alternative service for two years at the University of Kansas Medical Center. As an attorney, I have assisted a number of plow-share activists in Federal Court in the Kansas City area, as well as 125 trespass actions at the local nuclear weapons parts plant, I have been arrested three times, and my wife and I are tax-resisters.
Peggy Jacobson St. Francis Xavier Parish, New York, NY
I believe that Ben Salmon is worthy of sainthood.
I believe that Ben Salmon is worthy of sainthood.
Rosalie Riegle Su Casa Catholic Worker, Evanston, IL
We need models of faithful lay Catholics like Ben Salmon. The courage of his lonely pacifism can inspire us all to follow the Gospel teachings of peace.
We need models of faithful lay Catholics like Ben Salmon. The courage of his lonely pacifism can inspire us all to follow the Gospel teachings of peace.
Kevin Hall Antiwar.com, Dunedin, FL
We have the Gospel and therefore NONVIOLENCE is required of us. Thank you and God bless. + + +
We have the Gospel and therefore NONVIOLENCE is required of us. Thank you and God bless. + + +
Kiran D'Souza Dublin, OH
Michael Harank, RN Conscientious Objector, Oakland, CA
Rev. Timothy M. Kummerer Diocese of Toledo, New Riegel, OH
Ben Salmon stands as an important witness in this age of hate filled rhetoric and violent responses to our neighbors. May we turn our attention to this saintly prophet and find courage and example in the pathway of peaceful non-violence.
Ben Salmon stands as an important witness in this age of hate filled rhetoric and violent responses to our neighbors. May we turn our attention to this saintly prophet and find courage and example in the pathway of peaceful non-violence.
Fr. Albert Kirk Retired Priest, Diocese of Memphis, Cordova, TN
As our military budget reaches ever higher levels, we need to be reminded that we depend on the mercy and providence of God for our national security. Recognizing the saintliness of Ben Salmon will help accomplish that.
As our military budget reaches ever higher levels, we need to be reminded that we depend on the mercy and providence of God for our national security. Recognizing the saintliness of Ben Salmon will help accomplish that.
Linda Marsek Croton on Hudson, NY
Ben Salmon was willing to put his life on the line to express Christ's love for all humanity. He is certainly
a saint for our time in which there is so much violence and division.
Ben Salmon was willing to put his life on the line to express Christ's love for all humanity. He is certainly
a saint for our time in which there is so much violence and division.
Fr. Walter Helms Diocese of Davenport, Davenport, IA
Carol Ann Wassmuth National Benedictines for Peace, Cottonwood, ID
Edward Smith Bulgarian Orthodox Church, Dragalevtsi, Sofiya-Grad, Bulgaria
Brother Paul Feeney, CFX Xaverian Brothers, Shrewsbury, MA
Amidst the great cloud of heavenly witnesses to the nonviolence of Christ, Gordon Zahn will surely be lending his intercessory support on behalf of Ben Salmon's canonization.
Amidst the great cloud of heavenly witnesses to the nonviolence of Christ, Gordon Zahn will surely be lending his intercessory support on behalf of Ben Salmon's canonization.
Rosaire Leon Catholic Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Atlanta, GA
Contemplating both the Iliad -- an honest ontology of war if there ever was one -- and the Christian Gospel -- that way, life, and truth which places forth what is evidently the Homeric tragedy's sole alternative -- Simone Weil wrote: "It is only possible to love and to be just if one knows the empire of force and knows not to respect it." And indeed, "whoever does not love abides [already] in death" (1 John 3:14). The refusal of militarism -- above all in the face of imprisonment, torture, and death; in short every device proper to "the empire of force" -- is a Christian refusal, Ben Salmon's no less than that by the siblings Sophia and Hans Scholl, and worthy of sainthood. There is no promise more fundamental for those who would follow Christ (1 John 4:20).
Contemplating both the Iliad -- an honest ontology of war if there ever was one -- and the Christian Gospel -- that way, life, and truth which places forth what is evidently the Homeric tragedy's sole alternative -- Simone Weil wrote: "It is only possible to love and to be just if one knows the empire of force and knows not to respect it." And indeed, "whoever does not love abides [already] in death" (1 John 3:14). The refusal of militarism -- above all in the face of imprisonment, torture, and death; in short every device proper to "the empire of force" -- is a Christian refusal, Ben Salmon's no less than that by the siblings Sophia and Hans Scholl, and worthy of sainthood. There is no promise more fundamental for those who would follow Christ (1 John 4:20).
Carolyn Wiethorn Sisters of St. Joseph, Conway, PA
Fr. Tom Smith, OFM Conv Holy Cross Retreat Center, Mesilla Park, NM
As the chair of our Province Commission on Justice, Peace, and the Integrity of Creation I am happy to support the cause of Ben Salmon following his powerful witness of conscientious objection to war. May we all come to speak and act in a conscious choice for peace.
As the chair of our Province Commission on Justice, Peace, and the Integrity of Creation I am happy to support the cause of Ben Salmon following his powerful witness of conscientious objection to war. May we all come to speak and act in a conscious choice for peace.
Kimberly Redigan Pax Christi Michigan, University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy, Dearborn Heights, MI
As a high school teacher, I believe it is crucial that our youth surround themselves with a great cloud of nonviolent witnesses who model strength, courage, and gospel peacemaking. Ben Salmon is such a witness. A saint for our time!
As a high school teacher, I believe it is crucial that our youth surround themselves with a great cloud of nonviolent witnesses who model strength, courage, and gospel peacemaking. Ben Salmon is such a witness. A saint for our time!
Cheryl Wolfe Atheist, Polson, MT
Michael Saunders St. John's, NL, Canada
Dom Lomonaco Binghamton, NY
Carol Burk RSCJ, New Orleans, LA
Fr. Martin Lally Holy Family Parish, Archdiocese of Denver, CO
Dennis Bricker First Mennonite Church of Iowa City, IA
Art McDonald Former Dominican priest now Unitarian Universalist minister, Salem, MA
Charles McCarthy, OFM Conv. Our Lady of Consolation Province, Conventual Franciscans, Albuquerque, NM
Marcia F. Snowden Coordinator of "The History of the Association of Pittsburgh Priests", Pittsburgh, PA
Sr. Barbara Finch, CSJ Pittsburgh, PA
Sr. Carol Dougherty Sister of Charity, Pittsburgh, PA
James McCarville Association of Pittsburgh Priests, AUSCP, Pittsburgh, PA
Fr. Jack O'Malley Association of Pittsburgh Priests, Pittsburgh, PA
Joyce Rothermel St. James Church, Pittsburgh, PA
Such courage is called for today as the world is increasingly at war. We need more witnesses for peace and non-violence. Ben Salmon's life is an inspiration! War is immoral. Thank God for Ben's courageous witness.
Such courage is called for today as the world is increasingly at war. We need more witnesses for peace and non-violence. Ben Salmon's life is an inspiration! War is immoral. Thank God for Ben's courageous witness.
Michael Drohan Association of Pittsburgh Priests, Pittsburgh, PA
Ben Salmon was 100 years ahead of his time in refusing to take part in the slaughter fields of World War 1. He understood the immorality of all war and was punished for it. He witnessed to Jesus and his message when few others did but his country imprisoned and tortured him. What a man of our times to be a model for all of us as our planet and humanity is in danger of destroying itself through irrational and immoral warfare. With enough nuclear weapons to wipe out all humanity many times over it is time to listen to Ben Salmon once more and have him proclaimed a Saint.
Ben Salmon was 100 years ahead of his time in refusing to take part in the slaughter fields of World War 1. He understood the immorality of all war and was punished for it. He witnessed to Jesus and his message when few others did but his country imprisoned and tortured him. What a man of our times to be a model for all of us as our planet and humanity is in danger of destroying itself through irrational and immoral warfare. With enough nuclear weapons to wipe out all humanity many times over it is time to listen to Ben Salmon once more and have him proclaimed a Saint.
Charles D. Clinton All Saints Church, Syracuse, NY
In this age of senseless violence, we need to celebrate peace and the example set by Ben Salmon.
In this age of senseless violence, we need to celebrate peace and the example set by Ben Salmon.
Thomas Severin Connellsville, PA
As the United States continues to invest trillions of dollars in the military industrial companies, it is important that young people have a role model of someone who resisted our countries inclination to resolve international problems through violence and war. Ben Salmon displayed the courage and fortitude that all saints in our Catholic tradition have displayed. He was an example of the beatitude, "Blessed are those who suffer persecution for the sake of righteousness."
As the United States continues to invest trillions of dollars in the military industrial companies, it is important that young people have a role model of someone who resisted our countries inclination to resolve international problems through violence and war. Ben Salmon displayed the courage and fortitude that all saints in our Catholic tradition have displayed. He was an example of the beatitude, "Blessed are those who suffer persecution for the sake of righteousness."
Molly Rush Association of Pittsburgh Priests, Pittsburgh, PA
Blaise Tobia Pax Christi USA, Philadelphia, PA
David Aleva Association of Pittsburgh Priests, Pittsburgh, PA
Ben Salmon saw WW1 for what it was: Useless slaughter of millions for the sake of the egos of a few. Such are all wars.
Ben Salmon saw WW1 for what it was: Useless slaughter of millions for the sake of the egos of a few. Such are all wars.
Evelyn Christie Association of Pittsburgh Priests, Pittsburgh, PA
Ben Salmon's courage to live what Jesus taught and not follow the dictates of the many makes him a TRUE Christian, therefore, worthy of Sainthood.
Ben Salmon's courage to live what Jesus taught and not follow the dictates of the many makes him a TRUE Christian, therefore, worthy of Sainthood.
Susan I. Gomez Ben Salmon Guild of Denver, Denver, CO
Ben Salmon merits sainthood in the Catholic Church. He refused to kill in keeping the 5th commandment. Ben truly lived the nonviolent Gospel of Jesus. For this he suffered terribly at the hands of the US military. He never wavered.
Ben Salmon merits sainthood in the Catholic Church. He refused to kill in keeping the 5th commandment. Ben truly lived the nonviolent Gospel of Jesus. For this he suffered terribly at the hands of the US military. He never wavered.
Sister Marise Hrabosky Sister of Divine Providence, Allison Park, PA
As we strive for peace -the Holy Father's petition -Ben Salmon lived and suffered in his belief that war is never a solution only a another way to detour from peace. Wow-he held firm just as many saints did to be faithful to following the way of truth that Jesus taught. I ask that you consider this request for the beatification of Ben Salmon.
As we strive for peace -the Holy Father's petition -Ben Salmon lived and suffered in his belief that war is never a solution only a another way to detour from peace. Wow-he held firm just as many saints did to be faithful to following the way of truth that Jesus taught. I ask that you consider this request for the beatification of Ben Salmon.
Gerald Watt Congregation of the Resurrection, Morris, IL
The road to peace is through justice. "Peace I leave with you, my friends."
The road to peace is through justice. "Peace I leave with you, my friends."
Rev. Martin J. Hebda Archdiocese of Chicago, Darien, IL
Fr. Mark Francis, CSV President, Catholic Theological Union, Chicago, IL
An eloquent witness for our day of the sanctity of human life and the futility of war.
An eloquent witness for our day of the sanctity of human life and the futility of war.
Francis Skeith Pax Christi Texas, Austin, TX
Vicki Lott Pax Christi USA, Austin, TX
Mary Berwick Pax Christi Austin, Austin, TX
May Christ's Peace prevail on be Earth!!
May Christ's Peace prevail on be Earth!!
Grace Moore Hewett St. Francis de Sales, Houston, TX
Laura Marcinkowski Pax Christi, Houston, TX
Sister Martha Ann Kirk Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word of San Antonio, TX
Thanks so much.
Thanks so much.
Margie Medrano Pax Christi Austin, Austin, TX
Juliana Casella Ithaca, NY
Rev. Timothy Piasecki St. Mary Parish, Aurora, IL
We need his saintly example now more than ever,
We need his saintly example now more than ever,
Nina Pierce Immaculate Conception Parish, Union City, TN
Annette Dworsky Dominican Sisters of Houston, Houston, TX
The violence we see in our own country today is a cry to search for ways to achieve harmony and peace with one another. Ben Salmon shows us the courage needed to continue working toward building God's reign on Earth.
The violence we see in our own country today is a cry to search for ways to achieve harmony and peace with one another. Ben Salmon shows us the courage needed to continue working toward building God's reign on Earth.
Fr. Harry Bury, PhD. Archdiocese of St. Paul & Minneapolis, St. Paul, MN
I am hoping that Ben Salmon will be declared a saint because he was punished and imprisoned for refusing to be drafted and serve in the US Army during the First World War fought to end all wars. I am hoping that more and more young people world-wide will refuse out of conscience sake to participate in any war. Time is long since past that arms makers be out of business. It is time that all followers of Jesus take Him seriously and love our enemies and do good to those who hate us.
I am hoping that Ben Salmon will be declared a saint because he was punished and imprisoned for refusing to be drafted and serve in the US Army during the First World War fought to end all wars. I am hoping that more and more young people world-wide will refuse out of conscience sake to participate in any war. Time is long since past that arms makers be out of business. It is time that all followers of Jesus take Him seriously and love our enemies and do good to those who hate us.
David Gagne Community of St. Martin, Minneapolis, MN
Ben represents the Gospel of Jesus in a unique and important way. The church and all of society will be inspired by his elevation to sainthood.
Ben represents the Gospel of Jesus in a unique and important way. The church and all of society will be inspired by his elevation to sainthood.
William Quigley Professor of Law, Loyola University New Orleans, LA
Our church could have helped our world save tens of millions of lives had we listened to Ben Salmon. Beatifying him would help our church and our world stand for peace and justice and have a chance to save millions more in the future.
Our church could have helped our world save tens of millions of lives had we listened to Ben Salmon. Beatifying him would help our church and our world stand for peace and justice and have a chance to save millions more in the future.
Fr. Joe Mattern Casa Esther Catholic Worker, Pax Christi, and ESTHER pres., Omro, WI
No war - no more war ever again!
HOORAY for Ben Salmon - a man a great courage and much more. He inspires the rest of us to have the courage to stand up and speak out against the horrors of war. As Chris Hedges writes; THE GREATEST EVIL IS WAR. And as my friend Dan McGuire proclaims with his unique sense of humor; WAR IS FOR DUMMIES. Everyone loses, except for you know who....those who are part of the M.I.C.
No war - no more war ever again!
HOORAY for Ben Salmon - a man a great courage and much more. He inspires the rest of us to have the courage to stand up and speak out against the horrors of war. As Chris Hedges writes; THE GREATEST EVIL IS WAR. And as my friend Dan McGuire proclaims with his unique sense of humor; WAR IS FOR DUMMIES. Everyone loses, except for you know who....those who are part of the M.I.C.
Fr. Doug Hennessy Pastor Emeritus, Holy Trinity, Bloomington, IL
Bishop Anthony B. Taylor Diocese of Little Rock, Little Rock, AR
Fr. Len Dubi Archiocese of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Not only do I endorse, but I will urge my fellow priests -- despite the many obligations they have these days with the re-organization of our Archdiocese -- to lend their support by their endorsement.
Not only do I endorse, but I will urge my fellow priests -- despite the many obligations they have these days with the re-organization of our Archdiocese -- to lend their support by their endorsement.
Sr. Barbara Reid, O.P. Professor of New Testament Studies, Catholic Theological Union, Chicago, IL
Carmen Trotta NY Catholic Worker, New York, NY
Luz Catarineau Amistad Catholic Worker, New Haven, CT
Martha Hennessy Holy Family Parish, Perkinsville, VT
To make Ben a saint will greatly contribute to the US Catholic Church's stance on our perpetual war making. Ben is a saint, may the Vatican make this official ASAP! Thank you.
Ben suffered great torture in his efforts to follow the teachings and example of Christ.
War no more!
To make Ben a saint will greatly contribute to the US Catholic Church's stance on our perpetual war making. Ben is a saint, may the Vatican make this official ASAP! Thank you.
Ben suffered great torture in his efforts to follow the teachings and example of Christ.
War no more!
Thea van der Ven All Saints Church, Syracuse, NY
I celebrate PEACE and non-violence.......war is not the answer.
I celebrate PEACE and non-violence.......war is not the answer.
Vincent Stegman Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA
Eric LeCompte Pax Christi USA Ambassador and Board Chair Emeritus, Washington, DC
Joanne Miya Catholic Lay Missioner, Mwanza, Tanzania
Jesus Nacanaynay VCBHC, Kent, WA
His steadfast courage where everything seemed to tell him he was so wrong, he listened to God's voice. If that's not strong personal faith, I don't know what faith is. Faith to meet our times.
His steadfast courage where everything seemed to tell him he was so wrong, he listened to God's voice. If that's not strong personal faith, I don't know what faith is. Faith to meet our times.
David Mueller Dorothy Day Canonization Support Network, Neenah, WI
Mark Schneider Shii Koeii Community, Gardner, CO
All of the war resisters inspire me. Urge the Catholic Church to call upon practitioners to leave the military.
All of the war resisters inspire me. Urge the Catholic Church to call upon practitioners to leave the military.
F. Cheralyn Fedinatz The Catholic Worker-Rochester, NY
Coming from a military family, I am impressed by how brave he was to stick to his convictions. Ben has walked the path to sainthood.
Coming from a military family, I am impressed by how brave he was to stick to his convictions. Ben has walked the path to sainthood.
Fr. Bill Pickard Diocese of Scranton, laboring at NYC Catholic Worker, New York, NY
I attended the beatification of Blessed Franz in the Cathedral of Linz, Austria in October of 2007. If a Catholic Country of hardly eight million can come to the realization their leaders, both civil and ecclesiastical, were outshone by a layman with just an 8th grade education by opposing an unjust war, why cannot the US Catholic Church, with over 60 million baptized acknowledge that Ben Salmon merits recognition for standing up for his sincerely held belief that Thou Shalt not Kill?
I attended the beatification of Blessed Franz in the Cathedral of Linz, Austria in October of 2007. If a Catholic Country of hardly eight million can come to the realization their leaders, both civil and ecclesiastical, were outshone by a layman with just an 8th grade education by opposing an unjust war, why cannot the US Catholic Church, with over 60 million baptized acknowledge that Ben Salmon merits recognition for standing up for his sincerely held belief that Thou Shalt not Kill?
Brian Terrell Catholic Worker Farm, Maloy, IA
Adam University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
If Jesus Christ were alive during WW1, I could scarcely imagine him signing up to kill Germans.
If Jesus Christ were alive during WW1, I could scarcely imagine him signing up to kill Germans.
Rev. Thomas Fenlon St. Charles Borromeo/Resurrection Church, New York, NY
Robert S. More Pax Christi Metro DC-Baltimore, Vienna, VA
Ben Salmon's commitment to nonviolence, as taught and lived by Jesus Christ, even in the face of hostility and persecution, is a powerful example of faith for all of us.
In his World Day of Peace message for January 1, 2017, Pope Francis wrote, "To be true followers of Jesus today also includes embracing his teaching about nonviolence." Ben Salmon anticipated those words by 100 years, acting as a true follower of Jesus, despite the cost to himself. I fully support initiating the canonization process for Ben Salmon.
Ben Salmon's commitment to nonviolence, as taught and lived by Jesus Christ, even in the face of hostility and persecution, is a powerful example of faith for all of us.
In his World Day of Peace message for January 1, 2017, Pope Francis wrote, "To be true followers of Jesus today also includes embracing his teaching about nonviolence." Ben Salmon anticipated those words by 100 years, acting as a true follower of Jesus, despite the cost to himself. I fully support initiating the canonization process for Ben Salmon.
Zach Cornelius St. Dennis, Madison, WI
Please consider canonization for Ben. Acting on his conscience despite the impact on his life, has been an inspiration to my catholic faith.
Please consider canonization for Ben. Acting on his conscience despite the impact on his life, has been an inspiration to my catholic faith.
Tom Southard Conference of Major Superiors of Men, Philadelphia, PA
Ann Oestreich, IHM IHM Sisters, Monroe, WI
William Watts Catholic convert, Denver, CO
Been reading about this for years. It's important and valuable.
Been reading about this for years. It's important and valuable.
Kathryn Sanders St. Paul the Apostle Parish, New York, NY
Inspired choice for sainthood.
Inspired choice for sainthood.
MaryBelle Mitten United Methodist member, Endicott, NY
Why not?
Why not?
Vera Scroggins Unity Church of the Southern Tier, Binghamton, NY
I support Peacemakers and no War anymore. Thank you, Ben Salmon, for your convictions and sacrifice to the cause of Peace. Bless you for Eternity.
I support Peacemakers and no War anymore. Thank you, Ben Salmon, for your convictions and sacrifice to the cause of Peace. Bless you for Eternity.
Gary Doupe United Methodist Pastor, retired, Bainbridge, NY
I believe that being a "saint" (although originally a term for all members of Christ's community of mutual respect and regard) refers to a person's clarity and transparency in daily life as to trusting the power of love. Ben Salmon clearly trusted that power, and refused to be pressured to abandon it, even under duress. In the well-worn phrase, he "walked the walk" and could not be dissuaded by the pressures and powers of civilian and military authority. I believe that makes him a saint, and model of gospel charity for us all.
Saints signal the rest of us by their lives and actions. We surely need "signals" that support our search for justice and peace among nations. Ben Salmon's life is that signal, par excellence.
I believe that being a "saint" (although originally a term for all members of Christ's community of mutual respect and regard) refers to a person's clarity and transparency in daily life as to trusting the power of love. Ben Salmon clearly trusted that power, and refused to be pressured to abandon it, even under duress. In the well-worn phrase, he "walked the walk" and could not be dissuaded by the pressures and powers of civilian and military authority. I believe that makes him a saint, and model of gospel charity for us all.
Saints signal the rest of us by their lives and actions. We surely need "signals" that support our search for justice and peace among nations. Ben Salmon's life is that signal, par excellence.
Dr. Saundra Kennedy Sisters of Mercy of the Holy Cross Associate, Baton Rouge, LA
Brian McCormack Holy Spirit, McAllen, TX
Robert Schutzius St. Rose, Florissant, MO
Mary Gill Lay Missioner member of Maryknoll Affiliates, San Andrés Huayapam, Oacaxa, Mexico
Now more than ever we need people of conscience, followers of Jesus to be held up as encouragement.
Now more than ever we need people of conscience, followers of Jesus to be held up as encouragement.
John Heagle Therapy & Renewal Associates, Salem, OR
It is a privilege to support Ben's movement toward sainthood. For me, he reflects the slow moving, seismic shift toward peace-making as the central task of the gospel in our Catholic community.
It is a privilege to support Ben's movement toward sainthood. For me, he reflects the slow moving, seismic shift toward peace-making as the central task of the gospel in our Catholic community.
Rev. Jerome Brzezinski Diocesan Priest, Auburn Hills, MI
Earl Rohleder Diocese of Evansville, Santa Fe, NM
Anna Brown Saint Peter's University, Jersey City, NJ
We are in desperate need of people who lived a life of nonviolence so that they may be an example for the rest of us. Our world will not survive without nonviolence, and time is running out.
We are in desperate need of people who lived a life of nonviolence so that they may be an example for the rest of us. Our world will not survive without nonviolence, and time is running out.
Tony Gallagher retired presbyter, Diocese of Toledo and member of Association of US Catholic Priests, Toledo, OH
In my view, the life and witness of Ben Salmon are timely and superb examples for contemporary Christians to follow and emulate. His model of living the Gospel's inherent message of peaceful non-violence is critically needed these days, especially for our youth and younger adults.
In my view, the life and witness of Ben Salmon are timely and superb examples for contemporary Christians to follow and emulate. His model of living the Gospel's inherent message of peaceful non-violence is critically needed these days, especially for our youth and younger adults.
Fr. Paul Portland, SDS Society of the Divine Savior, Milwaukee, WI
Christ is very clear against violence and history proves violence doesn't work.
Christ is very clear against violence and history proves violence doesn't work.
Luann Mostello Pax Christ Metro DC-Baltimore, Gaithersburg, MD
Gerald Waris Overland Park, KS
The need is so great to recognize the voice and witness of those who are of peace and non violence. Recognition of Ben Salmon in this way gives impetus and validation to the non violent approach to the Gospel.
The need is so great to recognize the voice and witness of those who are of peace and non violence. Recognition of Ben Salmon in this way gives impetus and validation to the non violent approach to the Gospel.
Fr. Richard Notter Diocese of Toledo, Toledo, OH
Fr. Tom Henehan Maryknoll Society, Chicago, IL
Rich Couture Diocese of Evansville, Evansville, IN
Donald J. Bramble, OP Western Dominican Province, Los Angeles, CA
Rev. John Heinz, O.F.M., Conv. Conventual Franciscans, Castro Valley, CA
Fr. Eldon Schwab Diocese of Portland, Portland, OR
Fr. Donald Cozzens Cleveland, OH
James Henke Retired Priest of the Archdiocese of San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
The whole idea of war has become repulsive to me as I have grown in faith. It took the church way too long to condemn slavery. How long will it take our church and our world to condemn war?
The whole idea of war has become repulsive to me as I have grown in faith. It took the church way too long to condemn slavery. How long will it take our church and our world to condemn war?
Fr. Mark Miller, CPPS Sacred Heart Church, Sedalia, MO
It is important that we have witnesses to the Gospel message of non-violence. Too many people interpret non-violence as a form of passive behavior rather than an active decision in response to violence. To engage in non-violent behavior is indeed an activity of the will.
It is important that we have witnesses to the Gospel message of non-violence. Too many people interpret non-violence as a form of passive behavior rather than an active decision in response to violence. To engage in non-violent behavior is indeed an activity of the will.
Fr. Robert Schremmer Diocese of Dodge City, Wright, KS
Fr. Bill Graf Diocese of Rochester, Saint John Fisher College, Victor, NY
Fr. Vincent Petersen, OFM Conv. Conventual Franciscan Friar - Province of Our Lady of Consolation, Floyds Knobs, IN
Consideration of Ben Salmon's cause by The Church would be an incredible boost for those of us who have put our lives on the line for Gospel Non-Violence and suffered varying consequences for doing so. His story - his witness gives me hope and encouragement to continue in this walk of holiness.
Consideration of Ben Salmon's cause by The Church would be an incredible boost for those of us who have put our lives on the line for Gospel Non-Violence and suffered varying consequences for doing so. His story - his witness gives me hope and encouragement to continue in this walk of holiness.
Fr. Louis Arceneaux, CM New Orleans, LA
Ben Salmon is another voice speaking out for gospel nonviolence. More people need to hear his voice. He deserves to be recognized for his courageous living out of the Gospel of non-violence and peace.
Ben Salmon is another voice speaking out for gospel nonviolence. More people need to hear his voice. He deserves to be recognized for his courageous living out of the Gospel of non-violence and peace.
Bro. Justin Belitz, OFM The Hermitage, Indianapolis, IN
We need models like Ben Salmon who can motivate young people in today’s world. The ideals of Ben Salmon and his living of these ideals give us hope for the reality of world peace.
We need models like Ben Salmon who can motivate young people in today’s world. The ideals of Ben Salmon and his living of these ideals give us hope for the reality of world peace.
Fr. Clyde Foster St. John Vianney Parish, Mentor, OH
Harold C. Smith III St. John's Catholic Church, Homer, AK
I believe Ben Salmon truly lived and expressed the ideals that our savior Jesus lived and died for 2000 years ago.
I believe Ben Salmon truly lived and expressed the ideals that our savior Jesus lived and died for 2000 years ago.
Fr. Tom Wiederholt Diocese of Kansas City/St. Joseph, Kansas City, MO
I believe there is both a need and a hunger for the example of the life of Ben Salmon in our country today.
I believe there is both a need and a hunger for the example of the life of Ben Salmon in our country today.
Msgr. John Griesbach St. Anthony Retreat Center, Three Rivers, CA
In a country that has become the world´s greatest exporter of war and weaponry, and that seems convinced that "good" violence can cast out "bad" violence, Ben Salmon reminds us that violence can never cast out violence, but the power at the heart of non-violence can heal, forgive, reconcile, restore and reconnect people. That´s something that all the guns and bombs and "shock and awe" have never been able to accomplish.
In a country that has become the world´s greatest exporter of war and weaponry, and that seems convinced that "good" violence can cast out "bad" violence, Ben Salmon reminds us that violence can never cast out violence, but the power at the heart of non-violence can heal, forgive, reconcile, restore and reconnect people. That´s something that all the guns and bombs and "shock and awe" have never been able to accomplish.
Father Martin Peter Archdiocese of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN
Rev. Kenneth J. Augustine St. Luke Catholic Church, Brookfield, WI
Violence is never the answer. Hate and discrimination of any kind can only be overcome with love. We need examples of nonviolence especially in our day.
Violence is never the answer. Hate and discrimination of any kind can only be overcome with love. We need examples of nonviolence especially in our day.
Rev. Joseph Nassal, CPPS Provincial Director, Kansas City Province, Missionaries of the Precious Blood, Liberty, MO
The gospel nonviolence taught and lived by Jesus and practiced by Ben Salmon is desperately needed in a world torn apart at the seams by violence and hate. Ben's witness serves as a model for all to follow. We draw upon his intercession for the courage to practice gospel nonviolence.
The gospel nonviolence taught and lived by Jesus and practiced by Ben Salmon is desperately needed in a world torn apart at the seams by violence and hate. Ben's witness serves as a model for all to follow. We draw upon his intercession for the courage to practice gospel nonviolence.
Laurie Konwinski Catholic Charities of Tompkins/Tioga, Diocese of Rochester, Ithaca, NY
Ben Salmon lived a courageous saintly life that is a shining example of Christ's call to live non-violently and to love our enemies.
Ben Salmon lived a courageous saintly life that is a shining example of Christ's call to live non-violently and to love our enemies.
Fr. David Cooper Archdiocese of Milwaukee, Franklin, WI
Fr. Julio Alberto Martinez, OFM Conv. Diocese of Raleigh, Siler City, NC
Msgr. Charles E. DeRuisseaux Diocese of Manchester, Manchester, NH
I support the process of pursuing the study of advancing the cause of Ben Salmon. May he be recognized by the Church as a saint for his stance in favor of peace for which he suffered. I believe we need more lay models of holiness so everyone can realize we are ALL called to be saints at our baptism. Sainthood is not just for founders of religious orders who have large communities pushing their Cause.
I support the process of pursuing the study of advancing the cause of Ben Salmon. May he be recognized by the Church as a saint for his stance in favor of peace for which he suffered. I believe we need more lay models of holiness so everyone can realize we are ALL called to be saints at our baptism. Sainthood is not just for founders of religious orders who have large communities pushing their Cause.
Fr. David Engbarth Diocese of Rockford, Largo, FL
It's a wonderful thought we American Catholics, with The Lord's help, will see beatified someone who is more than a "hero." He's one who manifests sanctity by resisting the evil of war.
It's a wonderful thought we American Catholics, with The Lord's help, will see beatified someone who is more than a "hero." He's one who manifests sanctity by resisting the evil of war.
Fr. John Lee Congregation of the Passion, Jamaica, NY
Msgr. Robert M. Perkins Association of US Catholic Priests, Diocese of Richmond, Newport News, VA
Benjamin continues to challenge us individually and as a country & Church.
Benjamin continues to challenge us individually and as a country & Church.
Tulio Ramirez Yarumal Missionaries, Bronx, NY
When we say in church: discernment with a formed conscience, we need role models-saints, like this to be part of that information of our consciences.
When we say in church: discernment with a formed conscience, we need role models-saints, like this to be part of that information of our consciences.
Fr. Richard Prindle Archdiocese of Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach, CA
Our Church and our world sorely need more witnesses who are so completely committed to peaceful nonviolence as was Ben Salmon. He lived and embodied Jesus' message of love as we are called to do.
Our Church and our world sorely need more witnesses who are so completely committed to peaceful nonviolence as was Ben Salmon. He lived and embodied Jesus' message of love as we are called to do.
Fr. Raymond Tetrealt Diocese of Providence, Providence, RI
Fr. Larry Dowling Pastor, St. Agatha, Chicago, IL
Sr. Roberta Feil Sisters of Charity of St. Elizabeth, Convent Station, NJ
In this day and age, war and violence is a constant reminder to us of the suffering throughout the world and our need to have men and women raised up who are willing to sacrifice for truth and justice. BREAD NOT BOMBS, PEACE NOT WAR are cries of the poor that still linger into 2019. Ben Salmon was an example of one who lived his faith and the Gospel call to love thy neighbor and be in right relationship with all. I urge you to establish the means necessary to bring the Cause for the Canonization forward for Ben Salmon.
In this day and age, war and violence is a constant reminder to us of the suffering throughout the world and our need to have men and women raised up who are willing to sacrifice for truth and justice. BREAD NOT BOMBS, PEACE NOT WAR are cries of the poor that still linger into 2019. Ben Salmon was an example of one who lived his faith and the Gospel call to love thy neighbor and be in right relationship with all. I urge you to establish the means necessary to bring the Cause for the Canonization forward for Ben Salmon.
Mary Elizabeth Gannon Voice Of The Faithful, Florham Park, NJ
A peace-filled man that suffered for his cause.
A peace-filled man that suffered for his cause.
William J. Weiksnar OFM, Buffalo, NY
Ben Salmon was a great witness to the Gospel message of nonviolence, at a very difficult time in American history to take that stance. His love for Jesus' message to the point of the suffering he endured is good reason to consider him for sainthood.
Ben Salmon was a great witness to the Gospel message of nonviolence, at a very difficult time in American history to take that stance. His love for Jesus' message to the point of the suffering he endured is good reason to consider him for sainthood.
Jason Miller Franciscan Action Network, Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish, Arlington, VA
Daniel F. Murray, OFM Franciscan Friar - Holy Name Province, Boston, MA
Christine Mastros Up & Running, Inc., Belle Harbor, NY
Fr. Henry K. Sebastian St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Seffner, FL
Our world needs a man like Ben Salmon ...
Our world needs a man like Ben Salmon ...
Gloria Burd Jewish Peace Fellowship, WILPF, Sunnyvale, CA
This man is a hero, not a traitor!
This man is a hero, not a traitor!
Beth Cioffoletti Pax Christi, Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Jan Kiefer Independent, Scottdale, PA
Sister Benita Coffey, OSB Benedictine Sisters of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Jeannette A. Henry Parishioner of St. Hugh of Lincoln Church, Huntington Station, NY
Murray Polner Jewish Peace Fellowship, Great Neck, NY
John F. Desmond Roman Catholic professor, Walla Walla, WA
Martin McCaw Democratic Party, Walla Walla, WA
Richard Middleton-Kaplan Jewish Peace Fellowship, Walla Walla, WA
I am co-editor of SHALOM: JEWISH PEACE LETTER, which recently published an article about Ben Salmon. That was the first I knew about him--but the article convinced me that he merits this recognition.
I am co-editor of SHALOM: JEWISH PEACE LETTER, which recently published an article about Ben Salmon. That was the first I knew about him--but the article convinced me that he merits this recognition.
Kathleen Byrne Saint Gertrudes Roman Catholic Church, Bayville, NY
Jeanne Summo St. Augustine's, Larchmont, NY
Fr. John D'Mello Florida Diocese of Palm Beach, Palm Beach, FL
Ben Salmon was a man ahead of his time!! I actually downloaded Jack Gilroy's short play on Ben Salmon: "Sentenced to Death For Not Killing." I am passing it around.
Ben Salmon was a man ahead of his time!! I actually downloaded Jack Gilroy's short play on Ben Salmon: "Sentenced to Death For Not Killing." I am passing it around.
Jack Cook The Catholic Worker, 1965-1973, Endwell, NY
Good to know about him.
Good to know about him.
James Fishgold St. Catherine of Siena, Honeoye Falls, NY
Please advance Ben Salmon towards Sainthood. Our world is desperate for real people of peace such as Ben.
Please advance Ben Salmon towards Sainthood. Our world is desperate for real people of peace such as Ben.
Rev. Thomas McGann, CMF Claretian Missionaries, Chicago, IL
Michael Carr Diocese of Cheyenne, AUSCP, Cheyenne, WY
John Bloomingdale Conception Seminary College, Saint Joseph, MO
Fr. John Brennan Diocese of Springfield, St. Patrick Church, Monson, MA
Robert E. Pontbriand, Ph.D. Retired Professor of History, Dartmouth, MA
A heroic figure of witness and conscience to true Christianity. Spread the Word and his inspiration and reputation for Truth, Justice, and Non-Violence.
A heroic figure of witness and conscience to true Christianity. Spread the Word and his inspiration and reputation for Truth, Justice, and Non-Violence.
Michael McGrath Christ the King Catholic Church, Kansas City, KS
As a Catholic pacifist and believer in nonviolence as the teaching of Jesus Christ, love of neighbor and enemy alike, I think the official church ought to make examples of all those deceased faithful Catholics who have witnessed without compromise a commitment to nonviolence and refusal to kill other human beings for any reason.
As a Catholic pacifist and believer in nonviolence as the teaching of Jesus Christ, love of neighbor and enemy alike, I think the official church ought to make examples of all those deceased faithful Catholics who have witnessed without compromise a commitment to nonviolence and refusal to kill other human beings for any reason.
Bob Fontenot St. Patrick Catholic Church, Walla Walla, WA
Ben Salmon was a man ahead of his time, walking in the way of nonviolence.
Ben Salmon was a man ahead of his time, walking in the way of nonviolence.
Bob Burns Opus Bono Sacerdotii, Boston, MA
Sean Champagne Catholic Church, Oblate of the Order of St. Benedict, Montgomery, AL
I was deeply inspired by the witness of Ben Salmon, courageously living his faith in the face of all opposition. His work demonstrates a moral clarity and profound understanding of the Bible that is almost apostolic in nature. He effectively challenged the ecclesiastical consensus in the United States and the theory of Just War with a combination of simple piety and compassion. His magnum opus is one of the books I carry with me everywhere, alongside the Bible, the Rule of St. Benedict, and the Roman Catechism. Ben's life is one truly worthy of imitation, and he deserves recognition for his magnificent virtue.
I was deeply inspired by the witness of Ben Salmon, courageously living his faith in the face of all opposition. His work demonstrates a moral clarity and profound understanding of the Bible that is almost apostolic in nature. He effectively challenged the ecclesiastical consensus in the United States and the theory of Just War with a combination of simple piety and compassion. His magnum opus is one of the books I carry with me everywhere, alongside the Bible, the Rule of St. Benedict, and the Roman Catechism. Ben's life is one truly worthy of imitation, and he deserves recognition for his magnificent virtue.
Kathy Boylan Dorothy Day Catholic Worker, Washington, DC
Jesus would never join the military. I honor Ben Salmon's courageous faithfulness to the Way of Jesus.
Jesus would never join the military. I honor Ben Salmon's courageous faithfulness to the Way of Jesus.
Michael Walli Transform Now Plowshares, Washington DC
Linda Jolley Protestant, Menlo Park, CA
Stanislav Zadnik St. Casimir Cleveland, Parma, OH
Fr. Richard Creason Archdiocese of St. Louis, AUSCP, St. Louis, MO
Sr. Jacquelyn Doepker, OSF Tiffin, OH
Our world needs the example of courageous people like Ben Salmon.
Our world needs the example of courageous people like Ben Salmon.
Fr. Robert McAleer AUSCP, Bettendorf, IA
Rev. Thomas McCarthy Retired priest, Diocese of Youngstown, Hubbard, OH
Richard Molter Racine, WI
A man of peace who gave witness to the Gospel not only by word but by example.
A man of peace who gave witness to the Gospel not only by word but by example.
Fr. Ernest Corriveau, M.S. La Salette Missionaries, Attleboro, MA
We need to canonize contemporary people who were willing to follow their conscience even when they knew the personal cost to them would be high. Ben is a great model.
We need to canonize contemporary people who were willing to follow their conscience even when they knew the personal cost to them would be high. Ben is a great model.
Sr. Anne Hodge Donalds, SC
Call Brother Ben what you like but like Francis of Assisi he put down his weapon. It is good to let his voice speak out and do not be afraid of the terrors of man. Like the movie said if the Christians had acted like how he did, they would not have had anyone to fight the war. Our next war may not be as "earth and people friendly" as that war was. Someone must speak up. The church has got to make a stand. Wake up and rise from the dead and may Christ shine on you. The blessings of the Lord be upon you.
Call Brother Ben what you like but like Francis of Assisi he put down his weapon. It is good to let his voice speak out and do not be afraid of the terrors of man. Like the movie said if the Christians had acted like how he did, they would not have had anyone to fight the war. Our next war may not be as "earth and people friendly" as that war was. Someone must speak up. The church has got to make a stand. Wake up and rise from the dead and may Christ shine on you. The blessings of the Lord be upon you.
Jeremy Boguslawski St. Joseph Parish, North Ridgeville, OH
Patrick Carolan Executive Director, Franciscan Action Network, Silver Spring, MD
Fr. Duane Pribula Diocese of Crookston, MN, Fargo, ND
We need to celebrate contemporary saints who are true peace-makers and conscientious objectors to war and the perpetual arms race.
We need to celebrate contemporary saints who are true peace-makers and conscientious objectors to war and the perpetual arms race.
Stefano Albertini New York University, New York, NY
Ben Salmon's Catholic pacifism deserves to be recognized and known worldwide. When somebody will rightly question the integrity and conformity to the gospel of bishops and cardinals blessing weapons and encouraging their faithful to kill and be killed in battle, we'll be able to talk about a humble lay Catholic who understood and followed without compromise the Gospel of Peace, the Gospel of Life.
Ben Salmon's Catholic pacifism deserves to be recognized and known worldwide. When somebody will rightly question the integrity and conformity to the gospel of bishops and cardinals blessing weapons and encouraging their faithful to kill and be killed in battle, we'll be able to talk about a humble lay Catholic who understood and followed without compromise the Gospel of Peace, the Gospel of Life.
William T. Cavanaugh DePaul University, Oak Park, IL
We need more models of people who put following Jesus Christ above any other loyalty.
We need more models of people who put following Jesus Christ above any other loyalty.
Michael L. Budde Center for World Catholicism and Intercultural Theology, DePaul University, Chicago, IL
David A. Quincy, IL
I am a new Catholic Convert who for a long time struggled with entering the faith on the cause of the violence supported by it that I saw little resisted by its own members. The likes of people such as Ben Salmon, Day, the early Church Fathers, and so on, provide an example for us of the original Gospel of Christ, and how it can be lived out and its teaching clearly stated. God bless, Ben Salmon ora pro nobis.
I am a new Catholic Convert who for a long time struggled with entering the faith on the cause of the violence supported by it that I saw little resisted by its own members. The likes of people such as Ben Salmon, Day, the early Church Fathers, and so on, provide an example for us of the original Gospel of Christ, and how it can be lived out and its teaching clearly stated. God bless, Ben Salmon ora pro nobis.
Tony Magliano Syndicated Catholic Social Justice and Peace columnist, Rising Sun, MD
As an honorably discharged Catholic CO from the US Army, it is natural for me to fully support the beatification of Ben Salmon. His beatification would be a clear light of nonviolent peace to help guide our world out of the dark evil of war. The Catholic Church and the world need to know of the loving, selfless, heroic dedication of Ben Salmon to the nonviolent Jesus and his nonviolent Gospel.
As an honorably discharged Catholic CO from the US Army, it is natural for me to fully support the beatification of Ben Salmon. His beatification would be a clear light of nonviolent peace to help guide our world out of the dark evil of war. The Catholic Church and the world need to know of the loving, selfless, heroic dedication of Ben Salmon to the nonviolent Jesus and his nonviolent Gospel.
Robert Miyake-Stoner United Methodist Minister, Aiea, HI
Very glad that I learned Ben Salmon's story today!
Very glad that I learned Ben Salmon's story today!
Deacon Terry Barber Olympia, WA
Ben's voice is relevant today. He took to heart the words we hear in the Beatitudes: "Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you [falsely] because of me. Rejoice and be glad,for your reward will be great in heaven." Thank you, Ben, for your powerful witness to the Gospel. Ben Salmon preached the radical Gospel of Jesus by living a life of peace. He walked faithfully in the footsteps of our Lord.
Ben's voice is relevant today. He took to heart the words we hear in the Beatitudes: "Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you [falsely] because of me. Rejoice and be glad,for your reward will be great in heaven." Thank you, Ben, for your powerful witness to the Gospel. Ben Salmon preached the radical Gospel of Jesus by living a life of peace. He walked faithfully in the footsteps of our Lord.
Retired Pastor Jim Graf Archdiocese of Louisville, Boston, KY
Fr. Martin Marren Diocese of Chicago, Evergreen Park, IL
Fr Hugh Fullmer Diocese of Joliet, Fantana, WI
Fr. Michael Greer Diocese of Miami, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL
Fr. Raymond Sheperd Diocese of Toledo, Curtice, OH
Rev. Ken Fleck Diocese of Chicago, Tinley Park, IL
Fr. Mark Watson Diocese of Shreveport, Shreveport, LA
Rev. Bruce Byrolly Diocese of Wilmington, Cambridge, MD
Sr. Barbara Jennings Sisters of St. Joseph, St. Louis, MO
Msgr. Charles L. Brown III Diocese of Wilmington, New Castle, MD
Saints are models for living the Christian life. Ben is a model of non-violence and the primacy of conscience.
Saints are models for living the Christian life. Ben is a model of non-violence and the primacy of conscience.
Rev. Kevin I. Clinton Diocese of St. Paul/Minneapolis, Montgomery, MN
Rev. Farrell E. McLaughlin Diocese of Providence, Providence, RI
Sr. Carollyn Puccio, CSJ Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Paul, MN
Baptized Disciple Leo M. Ryska, OSB Benedictine, Aurora, IL
Rev. Joseph Von Handorf Diocese of Lexington, Somerset, KY
Rev. Arock Arockiasaamy Diocese of Lexington, Georgetown, KY
Fr. Frederick A. Devaraj Archdiocese of St. Louis, Wildwood, MO
Poco Wertin Church Relations Director, Merriam, KS
Rev. James Sheehan Archidiocese of New York, Bronx, NY
Now is the time for Christian common sense.
Now is the time for Christian common sense.
Rev. Tom Santen Archdiocese of St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
Rev. Michael Bausch Diocese of Rochester, Retired and Leadership Team - AUSCP, Pittsford, NY
Sr. Rita Louise Huebner, CSJ Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Louis, MO
Fr. Al Hirt, OFM Order of Friars Minor, Cincinnati, OH
Rev. Father John Vianney Hoover Diocese of Charlotte, Charlotte, NC
Lou and Mary Finocchario Overland Park, KS
Fr. Frank Wright, SMA Society African Missioners, West Yellowstone, MT
Fr. Norman Supancheck Archdiocese of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
Rev. Martin K. Mannion Archdiocese of St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
Rev. William V. Spilly Diocese of Rochester, Hamlin, NY
Rev. Thomas Lynch Diocese of Bridgeport, Narragansett, RI
Fr. William Connor Archdiocese of Los Angeles, Long Beach, CA
Fr. Neil Pezzulo Glenmary Home Missioners, TN
We need Saints and role models who stood up and called us to peace.
We need Saints and role models who stood up and called us to peace.
Rev. Fred Daley Diocese of Syracuse, All Saints Church, Pastor, Syracuse, NY
Candace Frie Archdiocese of Denver, Spirit of Christ Catholic Community, Arvada, CO
Ben Salmon spoke up against the sin of war when it was not at all popular to do so. He suffered for his position, but stayed faithful to the gospel. He is truly a saint of our time.
Ben Salmon spoke up against the sin of war when it was not at all popular to do so. He suffered for his position, but stayed faithful to the gospel. He is truly a saint of our time.
Richard P. Becker St. Matthew Cathedral Parish, South Bend, IN
Fr. Geoffrey Mackey Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, Ambridge, PA
Dr. Stewart Sharlow Australian Thomas Merton Society, Croydon, Victoria, Australia
The theology of just war theory no longer supports the going to war. All war is against the ecospirituality of our planet. The world needs heroes it can admire in our quest for world peace. Ben Salmon is such a hero, along with Venerable Dorothy Day.
The theology of just war theory no longer supports the going to war. All war is against the ecospirituality of our planet. The world needs heroes it can admire in our quest for world peace. Ben Salmon is such a hero, along with Venerable Dorothy Day.
Rev. Daniel Kearney Archdiocese of New York, New York, NY
Stephen M. Beall Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI
Ora pro nobis!
Ora pro nobis!
Joseph Forman St. Gerard Parish, San Antonio, TX
Holy One, Ben ... continue to pray FOR us and WITH us as we proclaim the Reign of God in our times ...
Holy One, Ben ... continue to pray FOR us and WITH us as we proclaim the Reign of God in our times ...
Sr. Joanne Roy Servants of Immaculate Heart of Mary, Saco, ME
An admirable life of a man true to the teachings of Jesus.
An admirable life of a man true to the teachings of Jesus.
Br. Michael Gosch Clerics of Saint Viator, Chicago, IL
Sr. Lucille Gardner Servants of Immaculate Heart of Mary, Saco, ME
Ben Salmon lived the truth he found in the Gospels.
Ben Salmon lived the truth he found in the Gospels.
Sr. Simonne Janelle Servants of Immaculate Heart of Mary, Saco, ME
Ben Salmon lived the Gospel message regardless of the consequences of tremendous suffering.
Ben Salmon lived the Gospel message regardless of the consequences of tremendous suffering.
Carolyn Banulis South Bend, IN
I learned of Ben Salmon from the article by Michael J. Baxter, "The Ben Salmon Story" in Casa Juan Diego's publication Houston Catholic Worker (July-Sept. 2019). Thank you!
I learned of Ben Salmon from the article by Michael J. Baxter, "The Ben Salmon Story" in Casa Juan Diego's publication Houston Catholic Worker (July-Sept. 2019). Thank you!
Robert J. Clarkson St. Anthony Cathedral, Beaumont, TX
As a new lawyer, I opposed the war in Vietnam. I advised those who were conscientious objectors. We collected signatures of those opposing the war to send to congress. I like the idea of joining Ben Salmon and Dorothy Day as " servants of God " on their life-long opposition to war.
As a new lawyer, I opposed the war in Vietnam. I advised those who were conscientious objectors. We collected signatures of those opposing the war to send to congress. I like the idea of joining Ben Salmon and Dorothy Day as " servants of God " on their life-long opposition to war.
Nora Kramer Catholic Worker, Philadelphia, PA
Joseph A. Amo St. Hyacinth Parish, Chicago, IL
Bill Jordan Jordan Energy, Troy, NY
Rev. Stephen Newton, CSC Saint Mary's College, Notre Dame, IN
Fr. Joseph Fice, S.J. Sacred Heart Jesuit Center, Los Gatos, CA
Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called "children of God" - and recognized as such by the Church.
Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called "children of God" - and recognized as such by the Church.
Dennis E. Wrabel St. Colman Parish, Cleveland. OH
Pat Guzman Lifelong Catholic, Houston, TX
"Peace be with you," said Jesus. Ben's life is exemplary of someone who was determined to be true to Catholic teachings. We need millions of Bens in this world of turmoil, deceit, selfishness, and greed.
"Peace be with you," said Jesus. Ben's life is exemplary of someone who was determined to be true to Catholic teachings. We need millions of Bens in this world of turmoil, deceit, selfishness, and greed.
Michael Drabik Toledo, OH
Please consider having Ben Salmon's cause for sainthood. He was a man for all seasons who lived out and spent his life for Christ.
Please consider having Ben Salmon's cause for sainthood. He was a man for all seasons who lived out and spent his life for Christ.
Craig Uhran Catholic, Houston, TX
Read about in Houston Catholic Worker.
Read about in Houston Catholic Worker.
Abraham M. Nussbaum Blessed Sacrament, Denver, CO
We pray for the intercession of Ben Salmon as we seek peace in this world.
We pray for the intercession of Ben Salmon as we seek peace in this world.
Sr. Mary Catherine Pillot, HM Sisters of the Humility of Mary, Villa Maria, PA
Kathleen Finnegan Sts. Simon and Jude Catholic Church, Grove City, OH
David Jerome Vespa Dignity, Arlington, VA
Tom Cordaro Pax Christi USA Ambassador of Peace, Pax Christi Illinois, Naperville, IL
In this time of white nationalist violence, racism, authoritarianism and other forms of tribalism, the nonviolent witness of Ben Salmon is needed now more than ever. Our young people need to know that there is a better way.
In this time of white nationalist violence, racism, authoritarianism and other forms of tribalism, the nonviolent witness of Ben Salmon is needed now more than ever. Our young people need to know that there is a better way.
Francis J. Coyle Friendship Friends Meeting, Greensboro, NC
Cause long overdue.
Cause long overdue.
Fr. Elwin Schaab Association of US Catholic Priests, Portland, OR
Our hero, who had more guts than I have.
Our hero, who had more guts than I have.
Marguerite Coyle St. Paul the Apostle Parish, Greensboro, NC
We are saved by those among us who remain principled.
We are saved by those among us who remain principled.
Fr. Paul Rossi Association of US Catholic Priests, Archdiocese of San Francisco, San Mateo, CA
Sr. Dorene King, OSB Benedictine Sister of St. Scholastica Monastery, Duluth, MN
Ben Salmon was gifted by God to follow the way of peace. Even in the throes of a society that equated patriotism with participating in war, Ben Salmon was willing to endure injustice in order to promote peace. Salmon's "way of the cross" promotes conscience following no matter the consequences. Therefore, it is imperative that the Church begin the process of canonization.
Ben Salmon was gifted by God to follow the way of peace. Even in the throes of a society that equated patriotism with participating in war, Ben Salmon was willing to endure injustice in order to promote peace. Salmon's "way of the cross" promotes conscience following no matter the consequences. Therefore, it is imperative that the Church begin the process of canonization.
Ken Butigan DePaul University, Chicago, IL
Joey Rose West Suburban Faith-Based Peace Coalition, Lisle, IL
Rev. Lawrence Manchas Diocese of Greensburg, Greensburg, PA
James F. Podlesny, OSB St. Vincent Archabbey, Latrobe, PA
Pope Paul VI: No more war, war never again.
Pope Paul VI: No more war, war never again.
Richard McAlister Seminarian for the Diocese of Harrisburg, McAlisterville, PA
Charlaine McAnany Peace & Justice Committee of Ascension Parish, Oak Park, IL
DearCardinal Cupich, Please introduce the cause of Ben Salmon for canonization. His story needs to be told. And what better way than when it is leading up to sainthood? Please take this request seriously and have the cause of Ben Salmon's Sainthood introduced.
DearCardinal Cupich, Please introduce the cause of Ben Salmon for canonization. His story needs to be told. And what better way than when it is leading up to sainthood? Please take this request seriously and have the cause of Ben Salmon's Sainthood introduced.
Pat McSweeney St. Mary's, Taunton, MA
The Christian messages are: LOVE YOUR ENEMIES AND DO NOT KILL. How can a real Christian ever support war?
The Christian messages are: LOVE YOUR ENEMIES AND DO NOT KILL. How can a real Christian ever support war?
David Bellone Catholic, Diocese of Greensburg, Jeannette, PA
Fr. Clete Kiley Archdiocese of Chicago,Chicago Federation of Labor,UNITE HERE International Union, Chicago, IL
Ben Salmon was a man of heroic virtue. He first heard the call of Pope Leo XIII to “ go the worker”, standing up for workers’ rights in Colorado. His courageous stance of conscience to resist participation in war was an even further testimony to Ben’s commitment to live the gospel to the fullest. Ben Salmon’s life and witness speak to the challenges of our day. He is a much needed guide for us and his life is worthy of our imitation. May he soon be recognized by the universal Church as a saint who has walked among us.
Ben Salmon was a man of heroic virtue. He first heard the call of Pope Leo XIII to “ go the worker”, standing up for workers’ rights in Colorado. His courageous stance of conscience to resist participation in war was an even further testimony to Ben’s commitment to live the gospel to the fullest. Ben Salmon’s life and witness speak to the challenges of our day. He is a much needed guide for us and his life is worthy of our imitation. May he soon be recognized by the universal Church as a saint who has walked among us.
Deacon Tom Cornell The Catholic Worker, Marlboro, NY
Ben Salmon's witness is of primary importance IN THIS WORLD TODAY.
Ben Salmon's witness is of primary importance IN THIS WORLD TODAY.
Patrick McAnany Ascension Parish, Oak Park, IL
Heroes are hard to find and often difficult to support, as is Ben Salmon. I hope for your call for a commission to explore the holiness of Ben in the face of such a deep fear (and then hatred) of pacifism.
Heroes are hard to find and often difficult to support, as is Ben Salmon. I hope for your call for a commission to explore the holiness of Ben in the face of such a deep fear (and then hatred) of pacifism.
Rev. Dennis Chriszt, C.PP.S. Society of the Precious Blood, Chicago, IL
Rev. Richard J. Prendegrast St. Gertrude Parish, Chicago, IL
Could there be a more pressing need today in our American Catholic Church communities than a witness to peace from our own nation?
Could there be a more pressing need today in our American Catholic Church communities than a witness to peace from our own nation?
Bill Healey Archdiocese of Indianapolis, St. Patrick Parish, Terre Haute, IN
Ed Fuentes One of God's children, Austin, TX
Greg Boertje-Obed Hildegard House Catholic Worker, Duluth, MN
Ben Salmon is a great example of following the example of Jesus who taught love of enemies, not killing or harming them. There are other examples of other Christians at the time of not enlisting in the killing service, but Ben may have stood out as a Catholic following the Spirit of love and nonviolence.
Ben Salmon is a great example of following the example of Jesus who taught love of enemies, not killing or harming them. There are other examples of other Christians at the time of not enlisting in the killing service, but Ben may have stood out as a Catholic following the Spirit of love and nonviolence.
Nancy L. Oetter Pax Christi Illinois, Naperville, IL
Vic Doucette Social Justice Resource Center, Wilmette, IL
We need to honor the witness of prophetic people like Ben Salmon as a model of nonviolence, particularly in this country where there is such an emphasis on the military and at a time of never ending war.
We need to honor the witness of prophetic people like Ben Salmon as a model of nonviolence, particularly in this country where there is such an emphasis on the military and at a time of never ending war.
David T. Blain Winona Catholic Worker, Winona, MN
Ben Salmon's cause, like the just-war-no-more trend in our time, is swimming up the very long stream of history, perhaps against a current still rather strong. But like the salmon, this cause knows well the path.
Ben Salmon's cause, like the just-war-no-more trend in our time, is swimming up the very long stream of history, perhaps against a current still rather strong. But like the salmon, this cause knows well the path.
Steve Young, OFM Franciscan friar, Holy Name Province, Chicago, IL
Ben Salmon is a model of resistance to the evils of war. In his perseverance amidst public ridicule, rejection, and imprisonment, Mr. Salmon showed forth his commitment to the Crucified Christ who is the Prince of Peace.
Ben Salmon is a model of resistance to the evils of war. In his perseverance amidst public ridicule, rejection, and imprisonment, Mr. Salmon showed forth his commitment to the Crucified Christ who is the Prince of Peace.
Christina Zaker Catholic Theological Union, Chicago, IL
Ben is an important witness for our times: an American Catholic man who chose to stand on the margins and stand for peace.
Ben is an important witness for our times: an American Catholic man who chose to stand on the margins and stand for peace.
J. Patrick Murphy, CM Congregation of the Mission, Chicago, IL
Daniel Berrigan sat in my living room and told my students that he had never been able to find any support for war in all his reading of the Gospels. The Christmas Truce of 1914 in Messines is the only time that German and British soldiers stopped killing each other, exchanged gifts and played soccer. Ben Salmon was right, there is no just war.
Daniel Berrigan sat in my living room and told my students that he had never been able to find any support for war in all his reading of the Gospels. The Christmas Truce of 1914 in Messines is the only time that German and British soldiers stopped killing each other, exchanged gifts and played soccer. Ben Salmon was right, there is no just war.
Bill Droel National Center for Laity, Chicago, IL
Deacon Jerry T. Souta Jr. Tinley Park, IL
I remember a story told by Fr. Berrigan. At a retreat, a group of 20 people were asked "What causes war?" All except one person shared their thoughts. Fr. Berrigan shares that there was tension in the room, and then, this person, after slowly looking in everyone's eyes, said, "There is enough power in this room to start a war." I pray that what we find in our hearts is not power to start a war, but the mercy, grace, and love of Jesus whose life was the gospel of nonviolence! Ben Salmon, pray for us!
I remember a story told by Fr. Berrigan. At a retreat, a group of 20 people were asked "What causes war?" All except one person shared their thoughts. Fr. Berrigan shares that there was tension in the room, and then, this person, after slowly looking in everyone's eyes, said, "There is enough power in this room to start a war." I pray that what we find in our hearts is not power to start a war, but the mercy, grace, and love of Jesus whose life was the gospel of nonviolence! Ben Salmon, pray for us!
Fr. Bill Tkachuk St. Francis Xavier Parish, La Grange, IL
Jack Jezreel JustFaith Ministries, Louisville, KY
We can only wonder how a man comes to such conviction in spite of all that is around him telling him he is wrong. History continues to reveal that our holy destiny is love--all embracing, nonviolent love. We should mark those moments in history, like the life of Ben Salmon, when mysteriously the truth emerged, even if all around him were blind to his light. It makes the moment even more powerful to remember.
We can only wonder how a man comes to such conviction in spite of all that is around him telling him he is wrong. History continues to reveal that our holy destiny is love--all embracing, nonviolent love. We should mark those moments in history, like the life of Ben Salmon, when mysteriously the truth emerged, even if all around him were blind to his light. It makes the moment even more powerful to remember.
Charles W. Dahm, OP Director, Archdiocese of Chicago Domestic Violence Outreach, Chicago, IL
It is so important for the Catholic Church to raise up holy and prophetic people to give witness that the spirit of Jesus Christ is active in the world. Please support the canonization of Benjamin Salmon who courageously lived and died following Our Lord.
It is so important for the Catholic Church to raise up holy and prophetic people to give witness that the spirit of Jesus Christ is active in the world. Please support the canonization of Benjamin Salmon who courageously lived and died following Our Lord.
Joanne Doi, MM, PhD Maryknoll Sisters, Catholic Theological Union, Chicago, IL
Brother Michael Segvich Edmund Rice Christian Brothers, Chicago, IL
Therese Middendorf Congregation of Saint Joseph, Brookfield, IL
Karl Meyer Catholic Worker, Nashville, TN
Juan Sandoval St Peter and St Paul Catholic Church, Alta Loma, CA
I do not believe in violence.
I do not believe in violence.
Mark Reisinger Binghamton University, Vestal, NY
Ben Salmon's actions represent the true meaning of peace and nonviolence.
Ben Salmon's actions represent the true meaning of peace and nonviolence.
Antonio Quintanilla St. Nicholas Church Evanston, Chicago, IL
Very important for the church and its stand for nonviolence.
Very important for the church and its stand for nonviolence.
Joe Boyle St. Nicholas Church Evanston, Glenview, IL
Yes! We need saints with courage.
Yes! We need saints with courage.
Sally J. Ryan St. Nicholas Church Evanston, Glenview, IL
He's a model of an informed conscience.
He's a model of an informed conscience.
Anna Boekstegen St. Nicholas Church Evanston, Evanston, IL
I applaud this campaign--much needed for the church!
I applaud this campaign--much needed for the church!
Margaret Feit Clark St. Nicholas Church Evanston, Skokie, IL
Margaret Sents St. Nicholas Church Evanston, Glenview, IL
Dan Maloney St. Nicholas Church Evanston, Evanston, IL
Sue Roemer-Fieberg St. Nicholas Church Evanston, Evanston, IL
Margaret Stapleton St. Nicholas Church Evanston, Evanston, IL
Msgr. Raymond L. Cole Diocese of Metuchen, Hillsborough, NJ
John Jerpe Archdiocese of Los Angeles, Thousand Oaks, CA
Alice Ashley Christ the King, Dallas, TX
Colman McCarthy Washington Post & National Catholic Reporter columnist, Washington, DC
Sarah Hinojosa St. Nicholas Church, Evanston, IL
Ben Salmon is an inspiring example of radical fidelity to the gospel and obeying one's conscience despite the pressures to conform to society's expectations. Christians need such inspiration, especially now.
Ben Salmon is an inspiring example of radical fidelity to the gospel and obeying one's conscience despite the pressures to conform to society's expectations. Christians need such inspiration, especially now.
Bob Bossie, SCJ Priests of the Sacred Heart, Chicago, IL
Thanks be to God for the life and witness of Ben Salmon. Such persons help me to take courage.
Thanks be to God for the life and witness of Ben Salmon. Such persons help me to take courage.
Br. Paul Bossie CLR-OTP, Chicago, IL
Mary Jo Schnabel St. Nicholas Church, Skokie, IL
Deacon Mike McCloskey Holy Name Cathedral, Chicago, IL
Ben's life & death give proof that the Holy Spirit of Peace & Justice continues to inspire us too, in order to give our lives (witnessing by word and/or example) to the "pruning of plowshares" that our Nation must do if the world is to be preserved for the glory of God & the good of us ALL!
Ben's life & death give proof that the Holy Spirit of Peace & Justice continues to inspire us too, in order to give our lives (witnessing by word and/or example) to the "pruning of plowshares" that our Nation must do if the world is to be preserved for the glory of God & the good of us ALL!
Terrance Norton St. Luke's Parish, River Forest, IL
Ben Salmon helps us as we try to follow Jesus in our lives. His courage and persistence show us the way. Amen.
Ben Salmon helps us as we try to follow Jesus in our lives. His courage and persistence show us the way. Amen.
Sara Cool Catholic Worker, Waleska, GA
I am convinced that the life and witness of Ben Salmon are examples that should be followed and emulated.
I am convinced that the life and witness of Ben Salmon are examples that should be followed and emulated.
Sr. Joellen Sbrissa Chicago, IL
Jeanette Hernandez St. Pascal's Catholic Church, Peace & Justice Ministry, Chicago, IL
Peace, rather than violence, should be glorified.
Peace, rather than violence, should be glorified.
Josie Setzler Tiffen Area Pax Christi, Fremont, OH
Ben Salmon is a saint for our times. We increasingly recognize the harm our wars cause to victims, to the earth, and to the perpetrators themselves. Ben Salmon understood our obligation as Christians to follow Jesus’ way of nonviolence and unconditional love. I strongly support his canonization.
Ben Salmon is a saint for our times. We increasingly recognize the harm our wars cause to victims, to the earth, and to the perpetrators themselves. Ben Salmon understood our obligation as Christians to follow Jesus’ way of nonviolence and unconditional love. I strongly support his canonization.
Fr. Ben Jimenez Society of Jesus, Cleveland, OH
Deacon Luis R. Lara Archdiocese of Chicago, Gurnee, IL
Peter Saracino Upstate NY
Uncommon courage inspired by uncommon faith. Willing to drink of the "Cup" Jesus drank from. Gave up his Earthly life for the sake of the Gospel's message. Given his commitment to his faith, he is very deserving of sainthood - if for nothing else than as an example for the rest of us!
Uncommon courage inspired by uncommon faith. Willing to drink of the "Cup" Jesus drank from. Gave up his Earthly life for the sake of the Gospel's message. Given his commitment to his faith, he is very deserving of sainthood - if for nothing else than as an example for the rest of us!
Bernadette Malone Clear Creek Church, Wheat Ridge, CO
Mary Herbst Interfaith Peace Network, Grand Island, NY
Rev. John Long First Presbyterian Church, Buffalo, NY
Linda Kingswood Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church, Estes Park, CO
I fall on my knees in repentance because I fall so very short in my walking in the footsteps of Jesus Christ compared to the unfailing commitment Ben Salmon had in his faith convictions. God bless Ben Salmon.
I fall on my knees in repentance because I fall so very short in my walking in the footsteps of Jesus Christ compared to the unfailing commitment Ben Salmon had in his faith convictions. God bless Ben Salmon.
Rev. Hope Douglas Harle-Mould Western New York United Church of Christ, Buffalo, NY
Robert Kingswood Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church, Estes Park, CO
Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Tom McGuire St. Pascal Parish Chicago - Maryknoll Affiliate, Chicago, IL
Psalm 20:7 "Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." Ben Salmon was a living witness of "trust in the name of the LORD". When we recognize that witness, we encourage others to resist trust in weapons and war.
I sign in memory of Fr George Zabelka who repented of blessing the Hiroshima/Nagasaki bomber. He wrote: "For the last 1700 years the church has not only been making war respectable: it has been inducing people to believe it is an honorable profession, an honorable Christian profession. This is not true. We have been brainwashed. This is a lie.
War is now, always has been, and always will be bad, bad news. I was there. I saw real war. Those who have seen real war will bear me out. I assure you, it is not of Christ. It is not Christ’s way. There is no way to conduct real war in conformity with the teachings of Jesus. There is no way to train people for real war in conformity with the teachings of Jesus.
The morality of the balance of terrorism is a morality that Christ never taught. The ethics of mass butchery cannot be found in the teachings of Jesus. In Just War ethics, Jesus Christ, who is supposed to be all in the Christian life, is irrelevant. He might as well never have existed. In Just War ethics, no appeal is made to him or his teaching, because no appeal can be made to him or his teaching, for neither he nor his teaching gives standards for Christians to follow in order to determine what level of slaughter is acceptable."
Psalm 20:7 "Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." Ben Salmon was a living witness of "trust in the name of the LORD". When we recognize that witness, we encourage others to resist trust in weapons and war.
I sign in memory of Fr George Zabelka who repented of blessing the Hiroshima/Nagasaki bomber. He wrote: "For the last 1700 years the church has not only been making war respectable: it has been inducing people to believe it is an honorable profession, an honorable Christian profession. This is not true. We have been brainwashed. This is a lie.
War is now, always has been, and always will be bad, bad news. I was there. I saw real war. Those who have seen real war will bear me out. I assure you, it is not of Christ. It is not Christ’s way. There is no way to conduct real war in conformity with the teachings of Jesus. There is no way to train people for real war in conformity with the teachings of Jesus.
The morality of the balance of terrorism is a morality that Christ never taught. The ethics of mass butchery cannot be found in the teachings of Jesus. In Just War ethics, Jesus Christ, who is supposed to be all in the Christian life, is irrelevant. He might as well never have existed. In Just War ethics, no appeal is made to him or his teaching, because no appeal can be made to him or his teaching, for neither he nor his teaching gives standards for Christians to follow in order to determine what level of slaughter is acceptable."
Sr. MaryLou Ann Rajdl, MM Maryknoll Sisters of St. Dominic, Inc., Chicago, IL
Chuck DiCola Joliet Diocese, Downers Grove, IL
Robert J. Heineman St. Nicholas Parish; Call to Action, Skokie, IL
Only because of prophets like Salmon can the church prove itself to be just, inclusive and accountable. He deserves to be lifted up as a model for all Christians.
Only because of prophets like Salmon can the church prove itself to be just, inclusive and accountable. He deserves to be lifted up as a model for all Christians.
Monica Fox St. Clement, Chicago, IL
Margaret and Bud Sents People for a Safer Society, Glenview, IL
Joanne Miller Evanston, IL
Patrice St. Clement Parish, Chicago, IL
Jeanne Ann & John Sattler Voices for Creative Non-Violence, Mount Prospect, IL
Ben Salmon's beatification should serve as a clarion call for addressing the immorality of War and the true cost of discipleship in being a conscientious objector.
Ben Salmon's beatification should serve as a clarion call for addressing the immorality of War and the true cost of discipleship in being a conscientious objector.
Sr. Monica M. Donohoe Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace, Englewood Cliffs, NJ
Thank you for considering my request. Peace, Sr. Monica
Thank you for considering my request. Peace, Sr. Monica
Franklin Freeman Good Shepherd Parish, Saco, ME
Brad Wolf St. Mary's Catholic Church, Lancaster, PA
Benjamin Salmon lived out the teachings of Christ and gave powerful witness for all of us. He represents what we can be when we truly believe Christ’s message of peace, of love, and of sacrifice. Please consider the Beatification of this brave and deeply spiritual man.
Benjamin Salmon lived out the teachings of Christ and gave powerful witness for all of us. He represents what we can be when we truly believe Christ’s message of peace, of love, and of sacrifice. Please consider the Beatification of this brave and deeply spiritual man.
Joseph Miller Maryknoll Lay Missioners, Cannon Falls, MN
Mark G. Russoniello Red Bank, NJ
A powerful and moving story that can inspire others. I frequently recall and share the words of Saint Pope Paul VI: "If you want peace, work for justice."
A powerful and moving story that can inspire others. I frequently recall and share the words of Saint Pope Paul VI: "If you want peace, work for justice."
Elaine Sugent Distant relative, Rolling Meadows, IL
With our world suffering escalating crisis and the compromise of basic values, Ben Salmon's unwavering personal convictions and his life choices shine as a beacon of hope. Rather than taking an easy or self fulfilling path, he chose the dignity and sanctity of life at great personal sacrifice. His dedication and example provide a blueprint of moral conduct befitting us all.
With our world suffering escalating crisis and the compromise of basic values, Ben Salmon's unwavering personal convictions and his life choices shine as a beacon of hope. Rather than taking an easy or self fulfilling path, he chose the dignity and sanctity of life at great personal sacrifice. His dedication and example provide a blueprint of moral conduct befitting us all.
Mark Meade Cathedral of the Assumption, Louisville, KY
Marilyn Derr Order of Preachers, Chicago, IL
Oh, if only we could have a world filled with people who do not believe in war, but do believe in peace and peace circles. May Ben Salmon be honored for his stand against war.
Oh, if only we could have a world filled with people who do not believe in war, but do believe in peace and peace circles. May Ben Salmon be honored for his stand against war.
Gordon A. Harpring Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church, Annandale, VA
As an admirer of Dorothy Day, Servant of God, I believe Ben Salmon is worthy to join her. Peace!
As an admirer of Dorothy Day, Servant of God, I believe Ben Salmon is worthy to join her. Peace!
Charles Warthen Xaverian Brothers (C.F.X.), Virginia Beach, VA
Dawn Krupiarz St. Patrick's Church, Oneida, NY
Jerome F. McAdams Holy Trinity Parish, Quincy, MA
Too many are friends of Caesar, first. Hearers of Christ, second. For too long the " Church" has been acting as Friends of Caesar. The Sanhedrin threatened Pilate of being "not a friend of Caesar" if he didn't crucify Christ. The sword we are called to wield Is the WORD of GOD.
Too many are friends of Caesar, first. Hearers of Christ, second. For too long the " Church" has been acting as Friends of Caesar. The Sanhedrin threatened Pilate of being "not a friend of Caesar" if he didn't crucify Christ. The sword we are called to wield Is the WORD of GOD.
John Gibbons First Parish in Bedford, MA, Unitarian Universalist, Bedford, MA
Ben Salmon's faith witness inspires across all boundaries of denomination. He was a "Servant of God."
Ben Salmon's faith witness inspires across all boundaries of denomination. He was a "Servant of God."
Gene Roman Friend of the Catholic Worker, Bronx, NY
America's Catholic bishops have lost the credibility to advance their pro-life agenda because of the sexual abuse crisis. They placed public relations and protecting the image of the Church ahead of safeguarding our children. Promoting the cause of sainthood for Ben Salmon could serve as an act of penance for their ecclesiastical failures.
America's Catholic bishops have lost the credibility to advance their pro-life agenda because of the sexual abuse crisis. They placed public relations and protecting the image of the Church ahead of safeguarding our children. Promoting the cause of sainthood for Ben Salmon could serve as an act of penance for their ecclesiastical failures.
Daniel Gilroy Elgin, IL
Br. Jeremy Dominic T. Bryja Brother Servants of the Sacred Heart, Necedah, WI
As a Catholic conscientious objector, I fully endorse the petition for the cause of the beatification and sainthood of Ben Salmon. The early Church taught what Ben Salmon witnessed to, and those in the military who wanted to be baptized had to give up any participation in wars. St. Francis, after his deep conversion, forbid his followers to take up arms. While Aquinas, borrowing from Augustine, came up with mere theories about trying to justify war, I would rather follow as did Ben Salmon the example of the defenseless Christ. After Constantine, compromise seeped into many believers to rationalize support of wars. Jesus said "to render not evil for evil," but do good to one's enemies. Ben Salmon taught and lived what Christ came to show us, and he did it like Jesus, coming on to his own, and his own (in the Church then) received him not.
As a Catholic conscientious objector, I fully endorse the petition for the cause of the beatification and sainthood of Ben Salmon. The early Church taught what Ben Salmon witnessed to, and those in the military who wanted to be baptized had to give up any participation in wars. St. Francis, after his deep conversion, forbid his followers to take up arms. While Aquinas, borrowing from Augustine, came up with mere theories about trying to justify war, I would rather follow as did Ben Salmon the example of the defenseless Christ. After Constantine, compromise seeped into many believers to rationalize support of wars. Jesus said "to render not evil for evil," but do good to one's enemies. Ben Salmon taught and lived what Christ came to show us, and he did it like Jesus, coming on to his own, and his own (in the Church then) received him not.
Nathan Schneider Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, America Magazine, Boulder, CO
Deacon John Lucas Joseph and Mary Retreat House, Mundelein, IL
Deacon Kevin T. Byrne Archdiocese of New York, New York, NY
Patrick Mullaney All Saints Parish, Syracuse, NY
Ben Salmon was a prophet of his time and in our time. We should cherish and celebrate peace in an era where violence and war have permeated this world.
Ben Salmon was a prophet of his time and in our time. We should cherish and celebrate peace in an era where violence and war have permeated this world.
Carol Avery Holy Family Parish, Weed CA
He was a brave man. He wasn't treated fairly by his government.
He was a brave man. He wasn't treated fairly by his government.
Dr. Deborah Lee Prescott Auxiliary of Our Lady of the Cenacle, Boynton Beach, FL
As a scholar of the Holocaust, I have a keen interest in WW1, whose fatal mistakes led so directly to WW2. If only more people had had the courage of Ben Salmon, who knows what global tragedies could have been averted. I was unfamiliar with Ben Salmon until reading an article about him in the Dec 2019 Catholic Worker, and I immediately felt that I must be an advocate for the cause of his beatification.
As a scholar of the Holocaust, I have a keen interest in WW1, whose fatal mistakes led so directly to WW2. If only more people had had the courage of Ben Salmon, who knows what global tragedies could have been averted. I was unfamiliar with Ben Salmon until reading an article about him in the Dec 2019 Catholic Worker, and I immediately felt that I must be an advocate for the cause of his beatification.
Rev. Edward P. Salmon Archdiocese of Chicago, Oak Park, IL
Alicejean Doriocourt St. Clement's Connecticut, Edge, TX
To live the beatitudes is the ONLY way to really live.
To live the beatitudes is the ONLY way to really live.
Scott Widmer St. Catherine of Sienna Newman Center, Salt Lake City, UT
James F. Callahan St. Rose of Lima Parish, Topsfield, MA
Tim Lacy St. Gertrude Parish, Chicago, IL
Please beatify this saintly man.
Please beatify this saintly man.
Matt Courter Seattle, WA
Agnes Maserjian St. Paul of the Cross Parish, Juno Beach, FL
I'm a strong supporter of conscientious objection to participating in war. I was moved by Michael Baxter's article in the NY Catholic Worker about CO Ben Salmon. He's right. War is a crime. We Catholics should not take any part in it.
I'm a strong supporter of conscientious objection to participating in war. I was moved by Michael Baxter's article in the NY Catholic Worker about CO Ben Salmon. He's right. War is a crime. We Catholics should not take any part in it.
Maria A. Smith St. Patrick's Parish (Bridge Ave.), Cleveland, OH
I have been a war tax resister since 1985. My father was career military-22 years during my entire childhood. He came to admire pacifists like the Bahai’ during his service in Viet Nam. We need Catholic examples of conscientious objection. The US has wasted over 2 trillion dollars on the war in Afghanistan. The Roman Catholic church has basically been silent about this travesty. It’s time to move from war to peace.
I have been a war tax resister since 1985. My father was career military-22 years during my entire childhood. He came to admire pacifists like the Bahai’ during his service in Viet Nam. We need Catholic examples of conscientious objection. The US has wasted over 2 trillion dollars on the war in Afghanistan. The Roman Catholic church has basically been silent about this travesty. It’s time to move from war to peace.
Charles A. Hurst St. Patrick's, Cleveland, OH
Deacon Paul Hursh St. Bridget Parish, Mesa, AZ
A modern day saint who followed the Prince Of Peace, Christ our Lord.
A modern day saint who followed the Prince Of Peace, Christ our Lord.
Thierry Verley Paroisse St. Vincent en Pays de Thongue, Lieuran-les-Beziers, France
Anthony Scheminger Catholic Worker Communities, Adamsburg, PA
"War will exist until that distant day when the conscientious objector enjoys the same reputation and prestige that the warrior does today. " John F. Kennedy
"War will exist until that distant day when the conscientious objector enjoys the same reputation and prestige that the warrior does today. " John F. Kennedy
Sonny Williams Member, Clifton United Methodist Church, Cincinnati, OH
I'm a Vietnam Veteran and war protestor. I've been arrested with better known war resisters and thank you all for working to canonize Ben Salmon, a Catholic pioneer War Objector. I heard about him through the New York Catholic Worker.
I'm a Vietnam Veteran and war protestor. I've been arrested with better known war resisters and thank you all for working to canonize Ben Salmon, a Catholic pioneer War Objector. I heard about him through the New York Catholic Worker.
Ann Marie Fowles Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, Denver, CO
Sean Giblin St. Margarite D'Youville Parish, Branton, ON, Canada
I'm deeply impressed by Ben Salmon's failth and his taking seriously the Commandment: Thou Shalt Not Kill. This, from a Catholic with a career as a jockey.
I'm deeply impressed by Ben Salmon's failth and his taking seriously the Commandment: Thou Shalt Not Kill. This, from a Catholic with a career as a jockey.
Sr. Geraldine Rosinski Sisters of Mercy, Pittsburgh, PA
At the 2 December anniversary of the death of the Four American Women in El Salvador, we were invited to stand up for another witness to the nonviolent Jesus: Ben Salmon.
At the 2 December anniversary of the death of the Four American Women in El Salvador, we were invited to stand up for another witness to the nonviolent Jesus: Ben Salmon.
John Hogue Su Casa Catholic Worker, Chicago, IL
Mary Monroe Smith Ladies of Charity USA/AIC, Rochester, NY
I believe Benjamin Joseph Salmon deserves sainthood. He is a role model for many.
I believe Benjamin Joseph Salmon deserves sainthood. He is a role model for many.
Deacon Doug Myler Diocese of Kansas City, St. John LaLande Roman Catholic Parish, Blue Springs, MO
Mr. Ben Salmon lived and professed the teachings of Jesus. The Catholic Church is always on the wrong side when it sides with those who profess war, violence, and killing as remedies to the problems of the greed of nations and humanity. The Catholic Church needs to honor the life of Mr. Ben Salmon as reparation for honoring and promoting killing and war. May the life and legacy of Ben Salmon raise up a multitude to decry the practice of war and the killing of human beings. War is always a failure for those who participate in and precipitate its use. Ben Salmon is a witness for peace. He bravely said no to war. Thou Shall Not Kill! In this time of the murder of over 13,000 Palestinian women, children, and men. Hospitals in Gaza being attacked. NICU babies dying because of lack of clean water, fuel to run the hospitals, etc. Hospitals being attacked deliberately! This country, the U.S., who has done little to nothing to stop the murder of civilians. But keeps shipping to Israel more and more munitions to continue the slaughter. Don't we need voices, like Ben Salmons, to remind Catholics and other Christians. There is no glory in war. Rather it is all Gore. War does not bring peace. It is the fertile cesspool of the next war and the one after that one!
Mr. Ben Salmon lived and professed the teachings of Jesus. The Catholic Church is always on the wrong side when it sides with those who profess war, violence, and killing as remedies to the problems of the greed of nations and humanity. The Catholic Church needs to honor the life of Mr. Ben Salmon as reparation for honoring and promoting killing and war. May the life and legacy of Ben Salmon raise up a multitude to decry the practice of war and the killing of human beings. War is always a failure for those who participate in and precipitate its use. Ben Salmon is a witness for peace. He bravely said no to war. Thou Shall Not Kill! In this time of the murder of over 13,000 Palestinian women, children, and men. Hospitals in Gaza being attacked. NICU babies dying because of lack of clean water, fuel to run the hospitals, etc. Hospitals being attacked deliberately! This country, the U.S., who has done little to nothing to stop the murder of civilians. But keeps shipping to Israel more and more munitions to continue the slaughter. Don't we need voices, like Ben Salmons, to remind Catholics and other Christians. There is no glory in war. Rather it is all Gore. War does not bring peace. It is the fertile cesspool of the next war and the one after that one!
Maria Zeballos Maryknoll Sister, Arequipa, Peru
Terry Jo Harford Cathedral Basilica of Saint Augustine, Ponte Vedra, FL
We need models of courage and witnesses of faith, who stand strong in the ways of peace.
We need models of courage and witnesses of faith, who stand strong in the ways of peace.
Deacon James P. Furey Archdiocese of Chicago, Streamwood, IL
Wolfgang and Elfrida Born St. Joseph Parish, Sequim, WA
Ben Salmon's beatification would bring me and our American Church peace of mind. Please, Archbishop, get working on this.
Ben Salmon's beatification would bring me and our American Church peace of mind. Please, Archbishop, get working on this.
Anne Ryan St. John's Parish, Susquehanna, PA
Violence begets violence.
Violence begets violence.
Thomas Dobbs St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Fort Worth, TX
The Catholic Church must listen to the Sacred Tradition that she infalliblly holds, that of the Church Fathers who teach that we are to Participate in the Nonviolence of Christ.
The Catholic Church must listen to the Sacred Tradition that she infalliblly holds, that of the Church Fathers who teach that we are to Participate in the Nonviolence of Christ.
Stephen Born Sequim, WA
Paul A. Milanowski Retired Priest of Grand Rapids Diocese, Grand Rapids, MI
Peacemaking and peacemakers are at the heart of the nonviolent Gospel of Jesus. We must resist all war-making and the idolatry of war and war heroes. Thomas Merton put it so well: “The God of peace is never glorified by human violence.” May all our Church recognize the peace witness of Benjamin Joseph Salmon. In my own spirituality he is already a martyr and saint. Long before the cause of Jose Maria Escriva. I have come to trust more in the communion of saints than the canonization of saints. Still, the cause of Benjamin Joseph Salmon is a most worthy cause for all peacemakers.
Peacemaking and peacemakers are at the heart of the nonviolent Gospel of Jesus. We must resist all war-making and the idolatry of war and war heroes. Thomas Merton put it so well: “The God of peace is never glorified by human violence.” May all our Church recognize the peace witness of Benjamin Joseph Salmon. In my own spirituality he is already a martyr and saint. Long before the cause of Jose Maria Escriva. I have come to trust more in the communion of saints than the canonization of saints. Still, the cause of Benjamin Joseph Salmon is a most worthy cause for all peacemakers.
Jonathan Lipp St. Gregory Episcopal Church, Littleton, CO
I admire the courage of Ben Salmon. He should get the recognition he deserves.
I admire the courage of Ben Salmon. He should get the recognition he deserves.
Mark Dellamano Notre Dame PeaceNet, Los Altos, CA
Ben Salmon's understanding of the nonviolence of the Gospel message is essential to knowing Christ. His life was truly sacramental.
Ben Salmon's understanding of the nonviolence of the Gospel message is essential to knowing Christ. His life was truly sacramental.
Dr. Patrick ODougherty Oblate of St. Benedict, St. John's University, St. Paul, MN
I had Dorothy Day for a teacher, mentor at St John’s University at Collegeville, MN. Ben Salmon clearly and without equivocation stands in her great stead.
I had Dorothy Day for a teacher, mentor at St John’s University at Collegeville, MN. Ben Salmon clearly and without equivocation stands in her great stead.
Hugh Schickel St. Joseph's in Malone, NY, Denver, CO
The Prince of Peace lives through us. If only we could all be as courageous as Mr. Salmon... Please consider this.
The Prince of Peace lives through us. If only we could all be as courageous as Mr. Salmon... Please consider this.
Jim Cusack St. Francis de Sale Parish, Lake Geneva, WI
The first casualty of war is truth. Before the war begins, the lies are already present. We are hoping for a return to sanity. War is not the answer. There is a better way. Resist evil. Many will follow their clear conscience. Solidarity!
The first casualty of war is truth. Before the war begins, the lies are already present. We are hoping for a return to sanity. War is not the answer. There is a better way. Resist evil. Many will follow their clear conscience. Solidarity!
Lee Kaspari Ellensburg, WA
I read the NY Catholic Worker article about Ben Salmon. I knew Charlie Salmon, Ben Salmon's son because I used to live in Denver. Sure, Ben's Cause should be advanced. We all knew about Ben's typerwriter, resting in peace in Denver at a rest home.
I read the NY Catholic Worker article about Ben Salmon. I knew Charlie Salmon, Ben Salmon's son because I used to live in Denver. Sure, Ben's Cause should be advanced. We all knew about Ben's typerwriter, resting in peace in Denver at a rest home.
William Detzner St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Miami, FL
Mary Traupman, CDP Sisters of Divine Providence, Pittsburgh, PA
I support sainthood for Ben Salmon. He is yet another Thomas More, another Franz Jaegerstaetter. We desperately need such prophets.
I support sainthood for Ben Salmon. He is yet another Thomas More, another Franz Jaegerstaetter. We desperately need such prophets.
Deacon Joseph Kudra Archdiocese of Chicago, Chicago Heights, IL
Frits ter Kuile St. Urbanus Parish & Jeannette Noelhouse, Amsterdam, Netherlands
The church does well to honor a member who was led by Christ to not join the carnage of WWI. The USA should be proud of it’s own Franz Jägerstätter.
The church does well to honor a member who was led by Christ to not join the carnage of WWI. The USA should be proud of it’s own Franz Jägerstätter.
Christine Perlin-Gump St. James, Louisville, KY
Ben Salmon should be named as a "Servant of God" for his pacifist stand against participation in WW I. He was one of the blessed peacemakers from the beatitudes, a contrast to generations of American young who are convinced to kill "For God and Country", the very concept a blasphemy.
Ben Salmon should be named as a "Servant of God" for his pacifist stand against participation in WW I. He was one of the blessed peacemakers from the beatitudes, a contrast to generations of American young who are convinced to kill "For God and Country", the very concept a blasphemy.
Gerald Gioglio OFS, Secular Franciscan Order, Colorado Springs, CO
This was the kind of courage our Brother Jesus taught and Brother Francis modeled. Time we celebrated Christian nonviolence. I support the canonization of Ben Salmon, Franz Jagerstatter and all catholic war resisters.
This was the kind of courage our Brother Jesus taught and Brother Francis modeled. Time we celebrated Christian nonviolence. I support the canonization of Ben Salmon, Franz Jagerstatter and all catholic war resisters.
Christian F. Casper St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Ann Arbor, MI
Ken Arlan Ebel All Saints Catholic Church, Englewood, CO
There is no such creature as a just war.
There is no such creature as a just war.
Sr. Hilary Hooks Allison Park, PA
Scott Wright Columban Center / Pax Christi, Mount Rainier, MD
The only way for war to end is for people to decide to no longer participate, and for our church to embrace nonviolence.
The only way for war to end is for people to decide to no longer participate, and for our church to embrace nonviolence.
Julia Pearson Secular Franciscan Order, Rochester, MN
The life of Ben Salmon is an embodiment of the grace of Jesus Christ here on earth, for all times. It is unchanging, regardless of current political trends and troubles. Salmon is a model of obedience to the Word Made Flesh.
The life of Ben Salmon is an embodiment of the grace of Jesus Christ here on earth, for all times. It is unchanging, regardless of current political trends and troubles. Salmon is a model of obedience to the Word Made Flesh.
Michele E. Monsour Chicago, IL
Fr. Mark Soehner, OFM Provincial, Order of Friars Minor, St. John the Baptist Province, Cincinnati, OH
Clearly Ben Salmon upheld the dignity of human life at great cost to himself. He was a "white martyr", killed by the harshness of the military industrial complex. His belief in Jesus Christ, the church, and the Gospel lead him to take the same stand as Jesus. "If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn and offer him the other." As a married man with children, he paid the ultimate price of sacrifice, holding to his conscience and his commitment to the Gospel. I believe he is now a saint, an eternal friend of God.
The importance of standing up to evil in nonviolent ways is the only way of dismantling the horror of war. Ben Salmon did that and it cost him. But the costs of war are greater yet.
Clearly Ben Salmon upheld the dignity of human life at great cost to himself. He was a "white martyr", killed by the harshness of the military industrial complex. His belief in Jesus Christ, the church, and the Gospel lead him to take the same stand as Jesus. "If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn and offer him the other." As a married man with children, he paid the ultimate price of sacrifice, holding to his conscience and his commitment to the Gospel. I believe he is now a saint, an eternal friend of God.
The importance of standing up to evil in nonviolent ways is the only way of dismantling the horror of war. Ben Salmon did that and it cost him. But the costs of war are greater yet.
Fr. Alejandro de Jesus Institute Voluntas Dei, San Antonio, TX
Fr. Thomas J. Meehan Archdiocese of Atlanta, retired priest, Association of US Catholic Priests, Miramar Beach, FL
I read Gordon Zahn's book on Franz Jagerstatter when I was a seminarian in Chicago in the 1960's. It inspired me to join the Catholic Peace Fellowship and take part in protests against the Vietnam War. I'm very glad to hear the story of Ben Salmon and hope it will generate new Catholic support for the cause of conscientious objection. Our Church and country is in sore need of heroes.
I read Gordon Zahn's book on Franz Jagerstatter when I was a seminarian in Chicago in the 1960's. It inspired me to join the Catholic Peace Fellowship and take part in protests against the Vietnam War. I'm very glad to hear the story of Ben Salmon and hope it will generate new Catholic support for the cause of conscientious objection. Our Church and country is in sore need of heroes.
Fr. Les Schmidt Glenmary Home Missioners, Big Stone Gap, VA
Brian Lohmann Holy Transfiguration Melkite Greek Catholic Church, Arlington, VA
Arcides De Jesus Catholic Social Serivces, Philadelphia, PA
Stephen Otterbein Parish of Saints Philip and James, Baltimore, MD
Leonard B. Bjorkman Member, Presbyterian Church (USA), Owego, NY
Benjamin Garvey Holy Name Cathedral Young Adults, La Grange Highlands, IL
Our world greatly benefits from the foundation and voice established by Ben Salmon. The spirit of non violence is a message that should be rung from the tallest Bell tower. Ben Simon was that voice during his life. The beautification of his soul will ring that Bell so the world can hear this message so important for these times.
Our world greatly benefits from the foundation and voice established by Ben Salmon. The spirit of non violence is a message that should be rung from the tallest Bell tower. Ben Simon was that voice during his life. The beautification of his soul will ring that Bell so the world can hear this message so important for these times.
Rev. Rosendo Urrabazo Claretian Missionaries, Oak Park, IL
Deacon Joe Truesdale Archdiocese of Chicago, Orland Park, IL
Rev. Mark Brummel Claretian Missionaries, Oak Park, IL
Deacon Antonio Delgado Archdiocese of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Rev. Dennis O'Neill Pastor, St. Martha/Shrine of All Saints, Morton Grove, IL
Deacon Fred Ortiz Associate Director of the Diaconate, Chicago, IL
Deacon Jose M. Estrada Archdiocese of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Professor David Appleby Thomas Aquinas College, Santa Paula, CA
Bernadine Karge Dominican Sister of Sinsinawa, Wisconsin, Chicago, IL
Martin J. Hagan St. Bernard Parish, Mt Lebanon, PA
I myself was a conscientious objector, and performed alternative service from 1970 to 1972. It would have helped me prove to my draft board that a good Catholic can be opposed to the taking of human life, if I had been aware of the life of Ben Salmon. He can serve as a beacon for Catholics of future generations who are being compelled to enter the military.
I myself was a conscientious objector, and performed alternative service from 1970 to 1972. It would have helped me prove to my draft board that a good Catholic can be opposed to the taking of human life, if I had been aware of the life of Ben Salmon. He can serve as a beacon for Catholics of future generations who are being compelled to enter the military.
Helen Ortmann Pax Christi, Pittsburgh, PA
In a time when people in power are doing so much harm to people and the planet, it is important to hold up people who honor all life.
In a time when people in power are doing so much harm to people and the planet, it is important to hold up people who honor all life.
Dan Johnson Chico, CA
As someone whose CO Status was rejected during the Vietnam War and who ultimately caved in and went into the army when drafted, I see Ben Salmon as a hero and in my mind a saint if there ever was one.
As someone whose CO Status was rejected during the Vietnam War and who ultimately caved in and went into the army when drafted, I see Ben Salmon as a hero and in my mind a saint if there ever was one.
Rev. Gregory M. Corrigan Resurrection Parish, Wilmington, DE
The good news of Jesus Christ echoes in our hearts because of the dedicated witness of Apostles like Ben Salmon. Thank you St. Ben! We need you. Pray for us.
The good news of Jesus Christ echoes in our hearts because of the dedicated witness of Apostles like Ben Salmon. Thank you St. Ben! We need you. Pray for us.
Nancy Crewe St. Mark Parish, Richmond, KY
Vincent Atchity St. Thomas More, Centennial, CO
Max Lewis St. James Cathedral, Seattle, WA
This is the type of witness that ignites my faith!
This is the type of witness that ignites my faith!
Francis J. Gilroy, MD St. Patrick's Church, Binghamton, NY
Rachel Clark Weehawken, NJ
Jack Gilroy of Veterans For Peace, Broom County Chapter, NY, gave me the link to this website and videos, which has educated me further more about the untold history of the United States of Anxiety. "Thy shall not kill" When president of the United States places his hand on a bible at the inauguration ceremony, we all should shout this, "Thy shall not kill!"
Jack Gilroy of Veterans For Peace, Broom County Chapter, NY, gave me the link to this website and videos, which has educated me further more about the untold history of the United States of Anxiety. "Thy shall not kill" When president of the United States places his hand on a bible at the inauguration ceremony, we all should shout this, "Thy shall not kill!"
Paul Doherty Diocese of Worcester, Arundel, ME
We must continue to oppose war, and to do it as an integral pro-life position. This canonization would reflect that we as a Church are indeed as committed as Ben was.
We must continue to oppose war, and to do it as an integral pro-life position. This canonization would reflect that we as a Church are indeed as committed as Ben was.
Robert Kinsey Colorado Coalition for the Prevention of Nuclear War, Colorado Springs, CO
His witness and subsequent death as a result of his time in prison stand in stark contrast to failure of the Christian churches that have fallen in lock step with national war policy. He should not be forgotten but instead held as a model of faithfulness to the Gospel of Christ.
His witness and subsequent death as a result of his time in prison stand in stark contrast to failure of the Christian churches that have fallen in lock step with national war policy. He should not be forgotten but instead held as a model of faithfulness to the Gospel of Christ.
David J. O'Brien College of the Holy Cross, Holden, MA
Conscience, conviction, courage, all informed by faith-filled love. That's holiness worth honoring and following.
Conscience, conviction, courage, all informed by faith-filled love. That's holiness worth honoring and following.
Dan Miller The Sacred Braid, Upland, CA
Ben Salmon shows us the non-violent path of Jesus, the Prince of Peace. We've gone to war long enough. It's time we go to peace. I encourage Ben Salmon's consideration for beatification and sainthood.
Ben Salmon shows us the non-violent path of Jesus, the Prince of Peace. We've gone to war long enough. It's time we go to peace. I encourage Ben Salmon's consideration for beatification and sainthood.
Nick Roth St. Francis of Assisi, Binghamton, NY
Donna Mae Spring Colorado Coalition for the Prevention of Nuclear War, Centennial, CO
I put the book about Ben Salmon in the Peace Collection of my home town public school library.
I put the book about Ben Salmon in the Peace Collection of my home town public school library.
Mary Alyce Behms Pax Christi, Denver, CO
Our world's threat of war to respond to differences must end and what better person to lead us than Ben Salmon.
Our world's threat of war to respond to differences must end and what better person to lead us than Ben Salmon.
John MacFadyen Pax Christi USA, Boynton Beach, FL
There is no just war!
There is no just war!
Darryl Nelson St. Mary's in Exile, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
What an inspiring story? I can think of fewer appropriate American candidates for Sainthood apart from Dorothy Day and the Berrigan brothers.
What an inspiring story? I can think of fewer appropriate American candidates for Sainthood apart from Dorothy Day and the Berrigan brothers.
Gregory Gillis Pax Christi Canada, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Ben Salmon along with the Berrigan brothers Dan and Phil, Fr. John Dear, Dorothy Day are all examples of the kind of leadership that we need to see from the Catholic Church today but for the most part is largely missing. Ben should be canonized as an example for our violent, intolerant times and when the Gospel is so misused by the far right and extremist groups claiming to be Christian but who deny the nonviolent message of Jesus. Thank you!
It remains regrettable that our Catholic Church which has a long history of warfare and supporting militarism continues to reject the teachings of the nonviolent Jesus. Nonviolence was for Jesus a nonnegotiable which was the whole meaning behind Jesus washing of the feet of his disciples this far from being an example of just service to one's neighbor was an initiation into nonviolence to walk the path of nonviolence in word and deed as Jesus would to the cross. When Peter refuses Jesus says "Then you can have no part of me!" Jesus statement applies to those bishops, clergy, and even the Pope if they do not understand this. Frs Dan and Phil Berrigan got this teaching as did Fr. Louis Vitale and currently Fr. John Dear. Ben Salmon should immediately be put forth for canonization for suffering for the nonviolent Jesus just like Sophie Scholl, Franz Jagarstatter and many others through out history who have chosen to follow Jesus hardest teaching to love our enemies and reject all violence!
Ben Salmon along with the Berrigan brothers Dan and Phil, Fr. John Dear, Dorothy Day are all examples of the kind of leadership that we need to see from the Catholic Church today but for the most part is largely missing. Ben should be canonized as an example for our violent, intolerant times and when the Gospel is so misused by the far right and extremist groups claiming to be Christian but who deny the nonviolent message of Jesus. Thank you!
It remains regrettable that our Catholic Church which has a long history of warfare and supporting militarism continues to reject the teachings of the nonviolent Jesus. Nonviolence was for Jesus a nonnegotiable which was the whole meaning behind Jesus washing of the feet of his disciples this far from being an example of just service to one's neighbor was an initiation into nonviolence to walk the path of nonviolence in word and deed as Jesus would to the cross. When Peter refuses Jesus says "Then you can have no part of me!" Jesus statement applies to those bishops, clergy, and even the Pope if they do not understand this. Frs Dan and Phil Berrigan got this teaching as did Fr. Louis Vitale and currently Fr. John Dear. Ben Salmon should immediately be put forth for canonization for suffering for the nonviolent Jesus just like Sophie Scholl, Franz Jagarstatter and many others through out history who have chosen to follow Jesus hardest teaching to love our enemies and reject all violence!
Richard Clemens Canadian Christian, Songhees, Victoria, British Colombia, Canada
Rosalinda S. Barrozo, MM Maryknoll Sisters, Kailua, HI
Resolution to avoid conflict through NON-VIOLENCE creates true Peace of mind & soul. War (or any kind of violence) results to division & hatred toward self & others. Thanks to Ben Salmon's example of true love for humanity & whole God's creation.
Resolution to avoid conflict through NON-VIOLENCE creates true Peace of mind & soul. War (or any kind of violence) results to division & hatred toward self & others. Thanks to Ben Salmon's example of true love for humanity & whole God's creation.
Jean Leahy CSJ Toronto, Pax Christi Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
We are in such need of this kind of witness!
We are in such need of this kind of witness!
Anne Candlin NWInterfaith for Palestine UK, Dalton, Wigan, United Kingdom
War is a waste of human, economic and natural resources which deserve to be put to better use.
War is a waste of human, economic and natural resources which deserve to be put to better use.
Tom Charles Veterans for Peace Chapter #35, Spokane, WA
As a Vietnam veteran I learned the hard way that war, no matter how justified, is always a criminal act. Ben Salmon will always be my hero. If anyone deserves sainthood, Ben Salmon would be at the top of the list.
As a Vietnam veteran I learned the hard way that war, no matter how justified, is always a criminal act. Ben Salmon will always be my hero. If anyone deserves sainthood, Ben Salmon would be at the top of the list.
Jeremy Milgrom Clergy for Peace, Jerusalem, Israel
Ben Salmon's life fulfills the Jewish ideal of Kiddush Hashem -- the sanctification of God's name!
Ben Salmon's life fulfills the Jewish ideal of Kiddush Hashem -- the sanctification of God's name!
Fr. Martin Newell, CP Passionist, Birmingham, United Kingdom
Ben Salmon was inspired to live the beatitudes, being a blessed peacemaker rather than a warmaker. He lived the desparately needed virtue of courage in the defence of life and truth. He saw what Pope Francis has written about in Fratelli Tutti: that love has no borders, that we are called to be neighbours not only to those close to us, but to God's children everywhere. His canonisation would make a great contribution to growing our sense of the meaning of living the Gospel, and of defending life from womb to tomb.
Ben Salmon was inspired to live the beatitudes, being a blessed peacemaker rather than a warmaker. He lived the desparately needed virtue of courage in the defence of life and truth. He saw what Pope Francis has written about in Fratelli Tutti: that love has no borders, that we are called to be neighbours not only to those close to us, but to God's children everywhere. His canonisation would make a great contribution to growing our sense of the meaning of living the Gospel, and of defending life from womb to tomb.
Todd Saddler Ithaca Catholic Worker, Ithaca, NY
Thanks and Praise to our Creator and Redeemer for the Life and Witness of Ben Salmon. Thank you Ben, for your mighty, blessed, power.
Thanks and Praise to our Creator and Redeemer for the Life and Witness of Ben Salmon. Thank you Ben, for your mighty, blessed, power.
Ellen Connett Pacifist, Binghamton, NY
I am thrilled to learn about Benjamin Joseph Salmon and the model for peace he has given us. It is sorely needed every day that the sun rises.
I am thrilled to learn about Benjamin Joseph Salmon and the model for peace he has given us. It is sorely needed every day that the sun rises.
Marc Tumienski Anna Maria College (theology faculty), Worcester, MA
Nicole T. Shanor Arvada, CO
Ann M. Cussen St. Peter Parish, Plymouth, MA
Rosanne Fischer Past Dir., Diocese of St. Cloud Mission Office/Society for the Propagation of the Faith; Lay Associate, Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls, MN
Molly Malone Granddaughter, Conifer, CO
Jane Affonso South Coast Interfaith Council, Redondo Beach, CA
This action would send an important message to the interfaith community of the importance of peacemaking and nonviolent resistance.
This action would send an important message to the interfaith community of the importance of peacemaking and nonviolent resistance.
Michael Hickin Diocese of Fargo, Langdon, ND
Joseph Peter Martin Our Lady Queen of Martyrs-Centerport, Northport, NY
His daughter Sr. Elizabeth Salmon is a dear friend. She is also an inspiration to me.
His daughter Sr. Elizabeth Salmon is a dear friend. She is also an inspiration to me.
John Winston Powell Villa Duchesne and Oak Hill School, Ferguson, MO
As a social justice teacher and part of the Network of Sacred Heart Schools at Villa Duchesne, I believe my students would benefit from the story of Ben Salmon being widely propagated. We need heroes and heroines in the Church to help us to spread Catholic Social Doctrine. Ben Salmon, pray for us!
As a social justice teacher and part of the Network of Sacred Heart Schools at Villa Duchesne, I believe my students would benefit from the story of Ben Salmon being widely propagated. We need heroes and heroines in the Church to help us to spread Catholic Social Doctrine. Ben Salmon, pray for us!
Timothy Carlin Our Lady of Nazareth, Roanoke, VA
I fully endorse the cause of his canonization.
I fully endorse the cause of his canonization.
Nolan McBride The Episcopal Church, Richmond, IN
Brent Fernandez Father Ryan High School, Nashville, TN
Look to the words of Francis in "Fratelli Tutti."
Look to the words of Francis in "Fratelli Tutti."
Msgr. Robert L. Amundsen Retired priest, Archiocese of Denver, Denver, CO
Friar Peter Chapaitis OFM, Middleburgh, NY
The heroic holiness of Ben Salmon is a living witness to the beatitude, "Blessed are the peacemakers, they are the children of God." He was a true martyr who was ready to die for the Gospel. His witness is sorely needed in our time when so many worship the false god of "redemptive violence" while neglecting the cry of the poor.
The heroic holiness of Ben Salmon is a living witness to the beatitude, "Blessed are the peacemakers, they are the children of God." He was a true martyr who was ready to die for the Gospel. His witness is sorely needed in our time when so many worship the false god of "redemptive violence" while neglecting the cry of the poor.
Daniel Lia Firefighter, North Huntingdon, PA
Msgr. R. Vincent Gartland Diocese of Trenton, Trenton, NJ
A story that should be a part of every curriculum in the Catholic High Schools.
A story that should be a part of every curriculum in the Catholic High Schools.
Fr. Thomas Ryan Immaculate Conception Church, Syracuse, NY
Fr. Michael Agliardo, SJ Society of Jesus, San Francisco, CA
God bless Ben Salmon. God grant us true peace in every human heart.
God bless Ben Salmon. God grant us true peace in every human heart.
Theresa Pigott Catholic, Athens, NY
Good person & faithful to Jesus
Good person & faithful to Jesus
Rev. Simon Carian Pastor, Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, Peña Blanca, NM
William Arthur McLean Archdiocese of Los Angeles, Seal Beach, CA
We need more people like this.
We need more people like this.
Mark Hoggard St. Pius X Catholic Church, Norfolk, VA
What a witness to Christian values!
What a witness to Christian values!
Sr. Deborah Schwab Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, La Crosse, WI
Jesus would want us to promote Gospel non-violence. I support this and the desire for Ben Salmon for sainthood. May he from heaven be witness to nonviolent action through gospel living.
Jesus would want us to promote Gospel non-violence. I support this and the desire for Ben Salmon for sainthood. May he from heaven be witness to nonviolent action through gospel living.
Rev. Bernard Farley Priest, Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
Fr. Tim Foley Archdiocese of St. Louis, Arnold, MO
Rev. James Carr Diocese of Richmond, Chesapeake, VA
Clair L. Boes Retired Catholic priest, Diocese of Sioux City, Rockwell City, IA
Fr. Edward Witt, SJ Pastor, Rapid City, SD
President Kennedy said he looked forward to an America that honored the Conscientious Objector as much as the warrior. Let us honor Ben Salmon in the Church.
President Kennedy said he looked forward to an America that honored the Conscientious Objector as much as the warrior. Let us honor Ben Salmon in the Church.
Rev. John S. Sarge Diocese of Saginaw, Midland, MI
Fr. Pat Casey Retired Priest, New Ulm, MN
Ted Cassidy Univ. of Dayton Campus Ministry, Marianists, Dayton, OH
Lawrence K. Frazier Retired Pastor, Archdiocese of Baltimore, Frederick, MD
Frank Eckart Diocese of Toledo, Toledo, OH
John J. Fitzgerald Retired parish priest, Diocese of Rockville Centre, Setauket, NY
Rev. Eugene S. Pocernich Archidiocese of Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI
Patrick J. Universal Retired Priest, Diocese of Gallup, NM, Bronx, NY
Fr. Charles F. Klinger Retired Priest, Diocese of Columbus, Columbus, OH
Rev. Edward Byrne Priest, Archdiocese of New York, Bronx, NY
Tom Ogg Ecclesial Priest, Worldwide Marriage Encounter, Diocese of Cheyenne, Ten Sleep, WY
Fr. Randall B. Phillips St. Blase Catholic Church, Sterling Heights, MI
Rev. Robert Flannery Diocese of Belleville, Carbondale, IL
Catherine Marcoux St. Francis of Assisi, Jefferson, MD
Please consider Ben Salmon's case for beautification as his life was a true witness to Our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus made his way back to Jerusalem knowing that he would be rejected by His apostles and followers, arrested, and crucified on the cross. All nonviolent action as an example for us. Ben lived this nonviolent peaceful protest to an unjust war at Great personal cost, to himself and his wife and children. He is an excellent candidate for Beautification.
Please consider Ben Salmon's case for beautification as his life was a true witness to Our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus made his way back to Jerusalem knowing that he would be rejected by His apostles and followers, arrested, and crucified on the cross. All nonviolent action as an example for us. Ben lived this nonviolent peaceful protest to an unjust war at Great personal cost, to himself and his wife and children. He is an excellent candidate for Beautification.
Nina Amabile Adams 12 Five Star Schools, Boulder, CO
As a teenager during the Vietnam war, I was horrified at the church's support of the war. I could not bring myself to go to church after that. Ben Salmon was a truly holy person because he stood for the values of Jesus and not the political views of a church. That kind of courage and faith is what sainthood is really about.
As a teenager during the Vietnam war, I was horrified at the church's support of the war. I could not bring myself to go to church after that. Ben Salmon was a truly holy person because he stood for the values of Jesus and not the political views of a church. That kind of courage and faith is what sainthood is really about.
Edwin United Methodist Church, Brooklyn, NY
John Amidon Pax Christi Upstate NY, Albany, NY
Simply put, "There is no Just War!" Ben Salmon so thoroughly and eloquently refuted the "just war theory" and lived by this principal with great personal sacrifice. His witness serves as an inspiration and a guiding light helping all of us to move forwardto learn more fully how to Love.
Simply put, "There is no Just War!" Ben Salmon so thoroughly and eloquently refuted the "just war theory" and lived by this principal with great personal sacrifice. His witness serves as an inspiration and a guiding light helping all of us to move forwardto learn more fully how to Love.
Anne Bjornson Pax Christi Metro New York, Bayside, NY
Paul Welch Social Action Ministry of the Syracuse Catholic Diocese, Syracuse, NY
May Ben move us Catholics to consider "Non violence begins with me."
May Ben move us Catholics to consider "Non violence begins with me."
Rev. Mr. John P. Weisenhorn St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, Gastonia, NC
Unfortunately, war has become our most profitable national enterprise, therefore, any/all peace movements challenge the livelihood of
many of our population. We need to convert our hearts more toward love and away from hating our “enemy”. I cannot find in any Christian Scripture any justification for killing the other. Love overcomes everything. It is the ONLY way, it is THE WAY!
Unfortunately, war has become our most profitable national enterprise, therefore, any/all peace movements challenge the livelihood of
many of our population. We need to convert our hearts more toward love and away from hating our “enemy”. I cannot find in any Christian Scripture any justification for killing the other. Love overcomes everything. It is the ONLY way, it is THE WAY!
Michael J. Lueken Xavier College Preparatory, Phoenix, AZ
Valerie Sifleet St. Bart's Norwich, New Berlin, NY
thank you
thank you
Frank Caldwell St. Jane de Chantal Parish, Bush, LA
Beverly Johnstone Bronx, NY
Philip Campbell Our Lady of Lourdes, East Palestine, OH
Ben Salmon is a model of the Catholic man. He fought for Christ's teachings on how we should treat each other. He is a saint and a model for our lives. No war is just.
Ben Salmon is a model of the Catholic man. He fought for Christ's teachings on how we should treat each other. He is a saint and a model for our lives. No war is just.
R. Brian Lyke Minister of Word and Sacrament of the Presbyterian Church, USA, Carmel Valley, CA
To be so committed to The Way of Jesus that Ben Salmon, who loved the Roman Catholic Church, which nurtured him in his faith, and ironically refused him the Sacraments because of his opposition to "the Great War," is proof enough of his unwavering commitment to Life and Love. It was not fear of war or of being killed that drove him, for he suffered more than many who did serve in that war. It was his unwavering commitment to the way of peace and brotherhood that motivated him to give his life. His example of discipleship should inspire many, and for the Church to declare him a Saint would be an inspiring turnabout.
To be so committed to The Way of Jesus that Ben Salmon, who loved the Roman Catholic Church, which nurtured him in his faith, and ironically refused him the Sacraments because of his opposition to "the Great War," is proof enough of his unwavering commitment to Life and Love. It was not fear of war or of being killed that drove him, for he suffered more than many who did serve in that war. It was his unwavering commitment to the way of peace and brotherhood that motivated him to give his life. His example of discipleship should inspire many, and for the Church to declare him a Saint would be an inspiring turnabout.
Michael Banovac St. Nicholas Parish, Los Altos, CA
Ben Salmon has convinced me of my own, already-held position as a Conscientious Objector to any form of war. I pray that he is in Heaven with the Communion of Saints, having received the three Crowns of Life, Peace, and Martyrdom as everlasting glories for his sufferings on Earth.
Ben Salmon has convinced me of my own, already-held position as a Conscientious Objector to any form of war. I pray that he is in Heaven with the Communion of Saints, having received the three Crowns of Life, Peace, and Martyrdom as everlasting glories for his sufferings on Earth.
Rev. Robert Beirne Diocese of Providence, Providence, RI
Donna Cushing Friend of the AUSCP, Macon, GA
Fr. Francis Gargani Redemptorist Congregation, Washington, DC
Eileen Reilly School Sisters of Notre Dame, Baltimore, MD
Robert Shine Mount Reinier, MD
Linda Scheckelhoff, OSF Sisters of St. Francis of Tiffin, OH, Tiffin, OH
Fr. Frank P. Morin Diocese of Portland In Maine, Waterville, ME
Charlie Shenk Somerset, KY
Ben Regotti Prison Chaplain, Capuchin Franciscan, Philadelphia, PA
James Worth Catholic Pastor, Archdiocese of Newark, Maplewood, NJ
Patricia A. Rogucki Sisters for Christian Community, Baltimore, MD
Lukáš Sláma Catholic, Prague, Czech Republic
Mary Kate Small Diocese of Portland, ME, Camden, ME
Jane F. Morrissey, SSJ Sisters of St. Joseph of Springfield, Springfield, MA
I've read a publication about him and was deeply moved. I then heard about him and his family from his daughter at Maryknoll and remember him yet as a singular witness to all the beatitudes. A Saint!
Ben Salmon has been a hero to me for decades now. I had the privilege of meeting his daughter, a Maryknoll Sister, some years ago on a retreat with Fr, John Dear. Holiness abides in this family, as Fr. Bernie Survil first alerted me. Thanks to the many who already know him to be a Saint of the Beatitudes, all of them.
I've read a publication about him and was deeply moved. I then heard about him and his family from his daughter at Maryknoll and remember him yet as a singular witness to all the beatitudes. A Saint!
Ben Salmon has been a hero to me for decades now. I had the privilege of meeting his daughter, a Maryknoll Sister, some years ago on a retreat with Fr, John Dear. Holiness abides in this family, as Fr. Bernie Survil first alerted me. Thanks to the many who already know him to be a Saint of the Beatitudes, all of them.
Nancy Small PCUSA Ambassador of Peace, Worcester, MA
Donna Gabriel Archdiocese of New York, Hurley, NY
Mary Jo Iozzio Professor of Moral Theology, West Roxbury, MA
Sam Leuschner Social Worker, Diocese of Worchester, Cherry Valley, MA
Josephine Garnem Olney, MD
Robert Cooke Chair, Pax Christi Metro DC-Baltimore, Gaithersburg, MD
Mary Leopold Pax Christi, Secular Franciscans, Silver Spring, MD
We need peace heroes like Ben and Franz to be better known.
We need peace heroes like Ben and Franz to be better known.
Sister Fidelis Rubbo Sisters of St. Francis, Sylvania, OH
I'm impressed with his story, and surprised that I had not heard of him before. Blessings on your work, and perseverance. Prayers, fidelis.
I'm impressed with his story, and surprised that I had not heard of him before. Blessings on your work, and perseverance. Prayers, fidelis.
Paul Burson Regis University, Denver, CO
It is so important to remember a hero in our tradition who still speaks to us, calling us through his example to follow the Prince of Peace.
It is so important to remember a hero in our tradition who still speaks to us, calling us through his example to follow the Prince of Peace.
Joanna Arellano-Gonzalez Coalition for Spiritual & Public Leadership, Chicago, IL
Gabriel Lara The Coalition for Spiritual and Public Leadership, Chicago, IL
Thanks to our brother Ben for his commitment to peace and no war.
Thanks to our brother Ben for his commitment to peace and no war.
Steven Christian, Covington, LA
Ben Salmon was a great example of our Lord's teachings put into action through great, personal sacrifice. A clear model for how one lives their life as a Christian.
Ben Salmon was a great example of our Lord's teachings put into action through great, personal sacrifice. A clear model for how one lives their life as a Christian.
Daniel Tracy Lay person, Salt Lake City, UT
Thomas M. Healey Benedictine Oblate, St. Andrew Abbey, Cleveland, OH
Michael Moran Pax Christi Massachusetts, Palmer, MA
Ben Salmon, like Blessed Franz Jagerstatter, should be a role model for all Catholics.
Ben Salmon, like Blessed Franz Jagerstatter, should be a role model for all Catholics.
Friar Peter Chepaitis, OFM Order of Friars Minor, Holy Name Province, Middleburgh, NY
Ben Salmon has inspired my faith and my preaching. His story is a clear incarnation of the Gospel of Christ. I stand with him in naming war as a sin, but without condemning anyone who participates in what they believe to be a necessary resistance to evil. I support naming him as a saint in the spirit of Oscar Romero & Pope John 23rd.
Ben Salmon has inspired my faith and my preaching. His story is a clear incarnation of the Gospel of Christ. I stand with him in naming war as a sin, but without condemning anyone who participates in what they believe to be a necessary resistance to evil. I support naming him as a saint in the spirit of Oscar Romero & Pope John 23rd.
Eileen Marie Ripsin Sylvania Franciscan, Sylvania, OH
Bernie Tomasso, OFS St. Mary's Church, Auburn, NY
Marc Tumeinski Worcester, MA
Jeanne Allen Pax Christi Western Massachusetts, Easthampton, MA
Michael A. R. Cipoletti FNE International, Coral Gables, FL
Dr. Stefan Silber University of Vechta, Sailauf, Germany
Thank you very much for this initiative. I didn't know anything about Ben until a friend told me about this initiative; and I think it will help to divulge knowledge about him in other countries as well.
Thank you very much for this initiative. I didn't know anything about Ben until a friend told me about this initiative; and I think it will help to divulge knowledge about him in other countries as well.
Brenna Cussen Anglada Catholic Worker, Cuba City, WI
Sister Sharon Havelak Sisters of St. Francis, Sylvania, OH
May the testimony of Ben Salmon's life unleash the power of nonviolence in our world.
May the testimony of Ben Salmon's life unleash the power of nonviolence in our world.
Jonathan Schommer St. Matthew's Cathedral, St. Peter Claver Catholic Worker, Catholic Peace Fellowship, South Bend, IN
The life and witness of Ben Salmon has been particularly inspiring to my family's and my faith and conviction in following Jesus as a Catholic in the United States.
The life and witness of Ben Salmon has been particularly inspiring to my family's and my faith and conviction in following Jesus as a Catholic in the United States.
Edward R. Fahy St. Leo Parish, Gig Harbor, WA
I am a conscientious objector. Augustine was a Roman citizen and (of course) his theology reflects a highly legalistic, authoritarian perspective. It is time for the Church to move away from a flawed theology which allows both sides in war to claim God's blessings.
I am a conscientious objector. Augustine was a Roman citizen and (of course) his theology reflects a highly legalistic, authoritarian perspective. It is time for the Church to move away from a flawed theology which allows both sides in war to claim God's blessings.
Charles McCarthy U. of the People, Brockton, MA
I think this is urgent. I sent the Pope a letter about the tie between nonviolence and the Universal Call to Holiness. They are one call to a boundless love for others.
I think this is urgent. I sent the Pope a letter about the tie between nonviolence and the Universal Call to Holiness. They are one call to a boundless love for others.
Susan Kerin Pax Christi Member, Rockville, MD
Anna Blackman University of Glasgow, Flore, United Kingdom
Mike Fenner National Director Veterans for Peace, Toledo, OH
As usual, the real heroes among us are not only ignored, but vilified. We can recognize and honor his amazing life and accomplishments by making sure his story lives on to inspire the millions of people who really do need a hero. Ben and the other brave men who stood by their consciences during the World Wars made it easy for me and others to leave the military as C.O.s in later years. We owe him much, personally and as human beings.
Thank you for telling the world about Ben Salmon.
As usual, the real heroes among us are not only ignored, but vilified. We can recognize and honor his amazing life and accomplishments by making sure his story lives on to inspire the millions of people who really do need a hero. Ben and the other brave men who stood by their consciences during the World Wars made it easy for me and others to leave the military as C.O.s in later years. We owe him much, personally and as human beings.
Thank you for telling the world about Ben Salmon.
Kate Zilla St. John XXIII Parish, Evanston, IL
Thomas McDonald Holy Spirit Catholic Community, Toledo, OH
Ben Salmon was much braver than I. I registered for conscience objectior status during the Vietnam War, met with my local draft board, but had my case "tabled" along with thousands of others in the U.S. in 1972. I then went to the Catholic Worker house in NYC (Dorothy Day was still living there at that time) for about a year. The Worker has published articles about Ben S. a number of times over the years, which is how I came to know about him.
Ben Salmon was much braver than I. I registered for conscience objectior status during the Vietnam War, met with my local draft board, but had my case "tabled" along with thousands of others in the U.S. in 1972. I then went to the Catholic Worker house in NYC (Dorothy Day was still living there at that time) for about a year. The Worker has published articles about Ben S. a number of times over the years, which is how I came to know about him.
Joanne White All Saints Catholic Church, Syracuse, NY
I pray for all people to respect human life. Ben Salmon was someone who did so even at the risk of his safety and life. I am honored to support a journey to sainthood on his behalf.
I pray for all people to respect human life. Ben Salmon was someone who did so even at the risk of his safety and life. I am honored to support a journey to sainthood on his behalf.
Freddy Berowski All Saints Catholic Church, Salisbury Center, NY
Andre J. Gray St. Mary's, Kingman, AZ
He was a man of great Faith.
He was a man of great Faith.
Ray Perez Chicano, Denver, CO
Anthony Perez Saint Cajatins, Denver, CO