Check out the complete #JesuitMadness Bracket.
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Editors Note: We had to check the server logs, but Canisus advances. He beat Miki by just 3 votes.
| St. Peter Canisius, SJ (1521–1597) Peter has been proving that there’s “no land like the Lowlands” since 1521. He was born in the Netherlands but took his “A-game” all over Germany, Austria, and Bohemia. In fact, he was the first Dutchman ever to enter the newly minted Society of Jesus in 1543. He is a Cinderella story for the ages. When the Protestant reformation was in full-court press, Canisius battled back with renowned preaching, several Catechisms, and care for plague victims… talk about a triple threat! This humble approach won the “Apostle to Germany” not only big-time street cred but many converts as well. He was canonized in 1925 for his efforts.Here’s a guy who never gives up. When Reformation theological debates were at their hottest, Canisius urged those around him to remember that argumentation would not win any admirers. When the pressure was on he helped launch the first Catholic printing press… talk about ice cold! As if that wasn’t enough, the slipper was proven to fit this Cinderella’s foot when death came knocking at his door. He survived a near-death stroke in 1591 and lived for six more years devoted to writing and takin’ care of bidniss. He might not seem like a favorite at first glance…but Canisius has proven time and time again that “Dutch is Clutch.” |
Paulo Miki (1562-1597) Son of a wealthy military leader? Sounds familiar, but Miki is no copycat of the other big names. Paulo Miki hails from the Big East. He was a Japanese Jesuit of a military family. Born around 1562, Miki came of age during the heyday of Japanese Catholicism. After being educated at a Jesuit school (typical powerhouse institutions), Miki entered the Society. He learned the rhetoric of Buddhist priests so he could debate with them. The Emperor Hideyoshi government executed Miki just before his ordination.Looking for the well-conditioned, in-it-to-win-it saint? Look no further than Miki, who marched 300 miles to his execution. With some old school flare of Roman-style persecution, Miki and companions are a formidable group. Look for well-executed Gospel-handling skills, understanding of the opponent and desire to finish. Reasons to win: passion and fire; hard work and conditioning; this guy has good, complete sense of the game. |
