Today (Dec 2) is the 46th anniversary of the martyrdom of Maryknoll Sisters Ita Ford and Maura Clarke, Ursuline Sister Dorothy Kazel and lay missioner Jean Donovan, pulled from their minivan  and murdered by El Salvador's military for their solidarity with the poor.

I've just written a novel about a Jesuit priest who goes to El Salvador in 1985 to minister to people traumatized by the war.  The writings of these four women show clearly their heroic love and devotion to those they served. 

All knew they were in grave danger from the brutal regime --supported and financed by the U.S. government under Reagan. Just before her death, Jean Donovan wrote: "Several times I have decided to leave -- I almost could except for the children, poor bruised victims of adult lunacy. Who would care for them?"

Maura spoke of her fear and the hope that she would be faithful whatever happened.

Saints indeed!

 Let's "kickstart" their canonization! Money should be no object. We need their inspiration!