Description
Blessed Stanley Rother, priest, missionary and martyr
Stanley Francis Rother was born in Okarche, Oklahoma, in 1935 and ordained a priest in 1963. He served for 13 years among the Tz’utujil people of Santiago Atitlán in Guatemala, learning their language and helping translate the New Testament while supporting parish, educational and medical work. During the civil war he remained with his threatened community and was killed in his rectory on July 28, 1981. Recognized as a martyr, he was beatified in Oklahoma City on September 23, 2017.
Priestly vestments, blessing and book
The icon presents Blessed Stanley in red priestly vestments, raising his right hand in blessing and holding a closed book. The colorful central band recalls the Guatemalan setting of his ministry through a church, cross and other local motifs. The book points to the Gospel he preached and helped make accessible in the Tz’utujil language; it is not meant as a portrait of a specific manuscript. The halo and inscription identify him as a blessed.
Crafted on linden wood in Poland
Made to order in Poland on a double-primed linden wood panel, with direct printing and decorative gold-tone metal leaf. A certificate with the year of production and a wall hanger are included.
For missionaries, priests and courageous Christian service
This icon is suited to a home prayer corner, rectory, seminary, mission office, Catholic school or parish with links to Oklahoma or Guatemala. It can accompany prayer for missionaries, persecuted communities, indigenous peoples and priests who serve in dangerous circumstances. It is also a meaningful gift for an ordination, mission commissioning, parish anniversary or anyone inspired by faithful pastoral presence.