Colorado: Kendrick Castillo, the 18-year-old student who lost his life during the tragic STEM School shooting in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, on May 7, 2019, may now be on a path toward sainthood in the Catholic Church. Castillo was the lone fatality in the attack, having bravely confronted one of the shooters alongside other students, ultimately saving lives with his courageous act.
The Diocese of Colorado Springs, to which Highlands Ranch belongs, announced that it has received a petition to open Castillo’s cause for canonization. Bishop James Golka praised the work of Father Gregory Bierbaum and Father Patrick DiLoreto of St. Mark Parish, who collected testimonies and evidence in support of the petition. “Although I have just begun reviewing the materials, it seems clear that Kendrick was an exceptional young man,” the bishop said. He encouraged the faithful to pray for Kendrick’s family and to invoke his intercession for youth to emulate his fortitude and generosity.
While Castillo had strong connections with the Archdiocese of Denver, including attending school there and serving as a Squire of the Knights of Columbus, canonization petitions are filed in the diocese where the individual dies. Consequently, the Diocese of Colorado Springs will oversee the investigation, reviewing evidence and testimonies before potentially sending the case to Rome for consideration.
Offering of Life
Father Patrick DiLoreto explained that Castillo’s life fits the category of “Offering of Life”, a designation introduced by Pope Francis in 2017. This category applies to those who sacrifice their life prematurely out of love for God and neighbor, though it does not meet the strict criteria of martyrdom. “Kendrick courageously threw himself at one of the school shooters without hesitation, allowing other students to subdue the gunman,” DiLoreto said. “His actions saved the lives of his classmates, preventing further deaths.”
A Life of Faith and Service
Those close to Castillo recall a young man deeply committed to his faith. He frequently carried and prayed with his rosary, volunteered actively in his parish, served at Masses and funerals, and even attended services for people he did not know, offering prayers for the deceased and their families. DiLoreto noted, “He was a pious young man who desired to witness his faith to others, especially to those unfamiliar with Christ.”
Castillo’s example is seen as a beacon for both young and old. In light of ongoing tragedies and attacks targeting Christians in schools, his heroism provides a model of virtue, courage, and charity. “Young people can see that sanctity is attainable through acts of charity and the grace of the sacraments,” DiLoreto emphasized.
The Path to Sainthood
The process of canonization is deliberate and rigorous. Verification of miracles attributed to Castillo’s intercession will play a critical role. Typically, one confirmed miracle is required for beatification, after which the individual is titled “Blessed.” A second verified miracle is necessary for canonization, culminating in sainthood.
As the Diocese of Colorado Springs begins its investigation, the story of Kendrick Castillo continues to inspire faith, courage, and hope, offering a poignant example of heroism rooted in selfless love for others.