Blessed Brother James Miller

A Life of Compassion and Service

Early Life

Blessed Brother James Miller, a De La Salle Christian Brother from the United States, devoted his life to education and missionary work in Central America. Born into a farming family in Wisconsin on September 21, 1944, his upbringing instilled in him a deep sense of compassion and service to others. He attended Pacelli High School in Stevens Point, WI, where he first encountered the Christian Brothers and felt a calling to join their mission.

In 1959, while still a sophomore in high school, Brother James joined a program for young men considering a life dedicated to the Christian Brothers. Over the next three years, he delved deeper into the teachings and values of the Brothers, solidifying his commitment to their mission. He began his formal training with the Brothers and took on the name Brother Leo William, a testament to his devotion to the order.

Teaching Career

After completing his training, Brother James embarked on his teaching career, starting at Cretin High School in Minnesota. Over the next few years, he taught Spanish, English, and religion while also coaching soccer. His passion for education and his dedication to his students made him a beloved figure in the school community.

In 1970, Brother James made his final vows as a Christian Brother and requested a mission assignment. He was sent to Nicaragua, a country torn apart by political unrest and social upheaval. Despite the challenges, Brother James immersed himself in the local community, teaching and leading schools and construction projects. He played a crucial role in building educational infrastructure and providing opportunities for the marginalized youth in Nicaragua.

However, escalating conflicts and threats from the regime forced Brother James to leave Nicaragua. Undeterred, he continued his mission in Guatemala, where he became the director of "Casa Indígena De La Salle," a school for indigenous youth in Huehuetenango. Here, he dedicated himself to providing education and hope to those who had been marginalized and oppressed by society.

Martyrdom

Despite the danger and hardship he faced, Brother James remained steadfast in his commitment to his faith and his mission. His unwavering dedication to serving the marginalized and oppressed in Central America serves as an enduring testament to his character and his values.

Tragically, on February 13, 1982, while Brother James was on a ladder repairing a wall at the school, he was assassinated by three masked gunmen. The murder occurred during a period of intense violence in Guatemala, characterized by the government's crackdown on suspected insurgents and their supporters, which often included church workers and humanitarians like Brother James.

The exact motives behind Brother James' murder remain unclear, though it is widely believed that his assassination was related to his work in empowering the marginalized Indigenous communities, which was perceived as politically and socially subversive by certain factions. His dedication to his faith and educational mission made him a target in a time of widespread persecution against those who stood up for social justice and human rights.

Brother James Miller's martyrdom has been recognized by the Catholic Church, and he was beatified on December 7, 2019. His legacy endures as a symbol of courage and unwavering faith in the face of oppression, inspiring many to continue the mission of serving those in greatest need.

Legacy

Brother James Miller's life and legacy continue to inspire us today. His selfless devotion to others, his unwavering faith, and his ultimate sacrifice serve as a shining example of what it means to live a life of compassion and service. Through his actions and his words, Brother James’s life inspires us by reminding us of the importance of compassion, service, and faith in making a difference in the world. His story is a poignant reminder of the impact one dedicated individual can have in advocating for justice and uplifting the marginalized, even in the face of tremendous adversity.

Life and Death of Brother James Miller, FSC

Dive deeper into the remarkable life of Blessed Brother James Miller in this short biographical film. Narrated by Brother Stephen Markham, his friend and colleague at St. Yon at St. Mary's University, this video offers charming anecdotes and personal reflections that highlight why Brother James's legacy is still crucial to the Lasallian mission. Click to learn more about his remarkable journey and the lasting impact of his dedication to education and service.

Prayer

O faithful Shepherd, Blessed Brother James Miller, FSC, as a Christian Brother and Lasallian missionary, you tilled the soil with your hands and invited Jesus Christ to till the soil of your soul. You became a sign of the love of Christ, the Good Shepherd for your students, and blessed their lives by your ministry.  You stood firm and did not run from danger, bringing glory to God, His Church, your Lasallian family, and your martyrdom.

Blessed Brother James, obtain from the heart of Jesus (make your request here), and pray for me, that I too may be a sign of Christ’s love. Teach me to faithfully till the soil of this life in this reality given to me by our Father, unafraid to stay with those God has given me, no matter the cost.

Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Imprimatur: +William Patrick Callahan, OFM Conv., Bishop of La Crosse – February 7, 2020

‍