U.S. Bishops Advance Sainthood Causes for Three Laypeople from the United States

The U.S. bishops have agreed to advance the sainthood causes of three laypeople from the United States, as presented by Bishop J. Douglas Deshotel of Lafayette, Louisiana, and Bishop Larry Silva of Honolulu. The candidates, Auguste Robert “Nonco” Pelafigue, Charlene Richard, and Joseph Dutton, all hold the title “Servant of God” and have remarkable stories of faith and service.

Pelafigue, known for his devotion to the Sacred Heart and the Blessed Mother, spent 68 years in ministry, organizing a League of the Sacred Heart and spreading the word on foot. Charlene Richard, who passed away at just 12 and a half years old from leukemia, is considered by many as a saint for her acceptance of suffering and the miracles attributed to her intercession. Joseph Dutton, a Civil War veteran, dedicated his life to serving those with leprosy in Hawaii, earning praise from St. Damien of Molokai and St. Marianne Cope.

The bishops affirmed the advancement of all three causes with no audible dissent, highlighting the importance of their examples of faith and service. With about 60 sainthood causes of Americans currently in progress, the church continues to recognize and honor those who have lived lives of holiness and virtue. In the spirit of Black Catholic History Month, Bishop John P. Dolan urged further support for the sainthood causes of six Black Catholic Americans.

The stories of Pelafigue, Richard, and Dutton serve as inspirations for believers and non-believers alike, showcasing the power of faith, service, and devotion to others. Their lives remind us of the importance of compassion, sacrifice, and the pursuit of holiness in our own journeys.