Stanley Francis Rother was born on March 27, 1935, in Okarche, Oklahoma. Ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City in 1963, he served in various parishes before volunteering for missionary work in Guatemala in 1968. In the village of Santiago Atitlán, he ministered to the Tz'utujil people, learning their language and translating the New Testament into Tz'utujil. During Guatemala's civil conflict, Father Rother remained steadfast amid increasing violence, stating, "The shepherd cannot run at the first sign of danger."

On July 28, 1981, Father Rother was murdered in his rectory, becoming the first U.S.-born priest and martyr recognized by the Catholic Church. Pope Francis acknowledged his martyrdom on December 1, 2016, leading to his beatification on September 23, 2017, in Oklahoma City. The ceremony, attended by over 20,000 people, was presided over by Cardinal Angelo Amato.

Father Rother's unwavering dedication to his parishioners and his ultimate sacrifice exemplify profound faith and courage. His legacy continues to inspire, particularly through the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine in Oklahoma City, dedicated in February 2023 to honor his life and ministry.