Stanley Rother: Episode Five
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What is the main topic discussed in this episode?
The story of Blessed Stanley Rother includes discussion of government persecution and torture.
If you're listening with younger ears, you may want to screen these episodes first. Thank you for listening. July 1981, Guatemala. Father Stanley has returned to his parish and his people. As he and his friends prepare for the local feast of St. James, an unexpected visitor arrives with an unwelcome message. Now, Father Stanley Rother faces the choice that will define his life.
The Saints, Adventures of Faith and Courage. Stanley Rother, Episode 5, Countdown. Listen to all the episodes and discover new shows at thesaintspodcast.com.
Tom Stafford, you never leave your side of the lake. Brings you to Santiago Atitlan. You stay here.
You.
Don't worry about me. Worry about the native catechists. Come in. Come in, please.
Stand. Your assassination is imminent. The government has decided to kill you.
I've been told.
If you want to live, you have to leave Santiago Atitlan immediately.
I won't leave the parish. I have a commitment to the people and to the sisters, and I will not leave.
Please, Stan, come with me now. I'll take you to the border. Tom, I appreciate your... Go pack a bag and get your passport. I'm taking you to the border now.
No, don't worry. I will fight. They won't take me alive.
Stay up.
Tom, thank you. But I have to go right now to Zarodoro and celebrate Mass for what's left of our brave catechists.
My brothers. I come here tonight to celebrate Mass and speak to you about how we have to keep on and fight for our Catholic Church. Don't lose your faith when you hear about violence. Some of you will die or be assassinated, as it is in Santiago Atitlan, where the catechists gave their lives to defend the truth. Many of the catechists in Santiago Atitlan are fleeing, and others were kidnapped or assassinated. There are many families with orphans and widows.
Padre, I've heard they're going to use the festival to forcibly recruit men into the army.
We'll give them refuge in the church overnight, Francisco.
But there are about 600 men.
Open up the church. Let them in. Yes, Padre. Come, hide inside. You are my catechists. You must always meet. Don't forget your meetings to prepare the word of God, which I and the other priests teach you each week. Brothers, keep on with our pastor Jesus Christ and don't digress from the way and your faith.
Sister Ana Maria, I am amazed that somehow the people find it in their heart to celebrate the St. James the Apostle Festival, even in the midst of this bloody civil war. Their spirit is uplifting. Berta, look through those doors at Padre. He has witnessed at least 50 marriages so far today, and he has about another 50 to go. I do.
I do. I now pronounce you husband and wife. May God bless this marriage. Amen.
Padre, you should take a break now.
No, Francisco. We need to finish these weddings. Who knows what will happen here? These couples have looked forward to this special day.
You're right. Here, let me refill the holy water.
Thank you, Francisco.
I cannot wait for our celebration tonight and Bertha's Chinese spread. She sure is a good cook. Salud!
Salud!
What warning does Father Stanley receive about an imminent assassination?
Put on the music! We need to blow off some steam!
It's been a very long day, Bertha. I think you might be right.
Well, I slaved for hours cooking you my special Chinese feast. So now you, Stanley Rother... You can dance with your old friend Bertha.
You did. You did. And I will.
dares to try to beat me in charades.
Why does Father Stanley refuse to leave his parish despite threats?
Not me.
Sister Anna Maria can whip any one of you in charades.
More wine, sister? Padre here went all out.
Me? That cake you made.
What about my cake?
It's huge.
You invited nine Carmelite nuns to join us. We need a big cake.
Well, sisters, have some more cake, or I'll be eating it all week.
... ...
My sisters and catechists, we will see each other in heaven. We have to be faithful before God and to the community. Follow in the faith of the saints and the apostles. Sister Ana Maria, can you please check to see if the sacristy door is locked?
All good. The party last night was fun.
Bertha was right. We really needed to let off some steam.
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Chapters
6 chapters
1
What is the main topic discussed in this episode?
0:00–4:34
2
What warning does Father Stanley receive about an imminent assassination?
4:34–4:58
3
Why does Father Stanley refuse to leave his parish despite threats?
4:58–6:53
4
How does Father Stanley prepare his community during the Feast of St. James?
6:53–8:18
5
How does the parish provide sanctuary during forced military recruitment?
8:18–12:05
6
What moments of celebration and community life occur during the festival?
12:05–12:09