I have picked a more modern saint who's feast day is today . . . Max Josef Metzger 1887-1944. Max was ordained right before the First World War. He spent much time at the front and so devoted his life thereafter to peace and reconciliation. Max founded the world peace league and the world congress of Christ the king.

He said in a speech in France . . . Only the realization of what is the dream of us all can bring peace: a true league of nations a coalition of all nations in a genuine Christian family of nations worthy of man.

He was an early pioneer in the ecumenical movement.

Being a German around the time of the Second World War you might guess that he was not favored by his government. He had regular conflicts with them. He was imprisoned in 1944. " I have offered my life to God for the peace of the world and the unity of the church . . ."

He was imprisoned for a year. During that time, he was a source of hope and inspiration to fellow prisoners and his associates on the "outside". He missed saying mass very much as he was mostly kept in irons. He was beheaded, yes beheaded . . .in 1944. His final words were Lord Jesus now I come quickly. . . . .

This man lived at the same time as my parents and grandparents. I find that hopeful. Sometimes I wonder who are our saints today.

I know there are out there . . .I know that we may even walk in their midst.

Take notice of the good that others do. Take notice of the good inside yourself. You are holy whether or not you choose to act that way or be that way. You are.

-Jamie Dillon