“My last visit with Blessed Stanley occurred in 1981 shortly before he returned to Guatemala. It will remain in my mind as memorable because the discussion centered on his desire to return to his parishioners in Santiago Atitlan even though he knew his life was in danger. I was very proud of his decision and gave him my blessing.”
Archbishop Emeritus Eusebius J. Beltran Archdiocese of Oklahoma City
"I never met Bl. Stanley, so I have no memories of him, however I just finished RCIA last Holy Week and Bl. Stanley was my first step along the way.
I had been out of church for years, dissatisfied, unfulfilled, knowing I was missing something. I live very close to the shrine and remember wondering what was being built. Reading the construction sign wasn't helpful as I had no idea who Stanley Rother was or why a shrine was being built in his memory. So of course, I Googled him. Immediately, I was deeply touched by the articles written about him, to the point of wanting to know more and purchasing "The Shepherd Who Didn't Run" to learn his story.
At the same time, my oldest son had converted two years prior. He and I started talking about Catholicism and sharing with him furthered my curiosity while making me strongly consider RCIA. My wife and I did indeed join together and were confirmed this last Holy Week. Choosing my confirmation saint was easy.... who other than Bl. Stanley Rother could I have chosen?
Thank you for allowing me to share!"
Wayne Mohon
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Oklahoma City
“Having supper at our house after Sunday Mass with Fr. Foken.”
Sara English Corpus Christi Catholic Church, Oklahoma City
“I believe this is a photo of Bl. Stanley's last birthday as it was taken in March 1981. My sister Laura is standing next to him and my parents, Joe and Mary Tinker, are also among the family and friends gathered there.”
Joyce Tinker Poska
Corpus Christi Catholic Church, Oklahoma City