Canadian Martyrs

Midland, Ont.'s Martyr’s Shrine is preparing for what could be its most eventful and spiritually vibrant year to date, with the historic site of worship and encounter hosting dual celebrations for its centennial and quadricentennial in 2026.

Acclaimed Catholic filmmaker Kevin Dunn is ready to chronicle “one of the greatest stories in Canadian history that has never been told properly on film.”

It was 100 years ago this month that the eight men who dedicated their lives in honouring God and their neighbour throughout their missionary work and would become known as the Canadian Martyrs were beatified, setting the stage for their canonization five years later.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has designated Our Lady of Martyrs Shrine in Auriesville, New York, as a national shrine for pilgrims, the sanctuary announced Jan. 30.