St. Maximilian was born in the year 274 AD and was martyred on March 12, 295 in what is now Algeria. Because his father was a soldier in the Roman army, he was forced to enlist at the age of 21. He refused, stating that a Christian could not justify serving as a soldier. An account of the conversation which led to his execution still exists. Today, Maximilian is honored as the patron saint of conscientious objectors.   

Questions for Reflection:

• What moral demands does your faith place on you?  
• When has your conscience compelled you to make an unpopular or countercultural stand?
• How important to you are the virtues of peace and nonviolence?