For people of faith like us, we have a trove of inspiration to help us live our mission calling. I’m talking about the saints and martyrs—and the unsung heroes of everyday life who have crossed paths with us and left behind a blessing or two.

This week, during our Extraordinary Month of Mission, our Holy Father Pope Francis asks us to deepen our faith by spending time with the missionary saints, martyrs and confessors. From the earliest days of the Church right through the present century, we can call on their examples of self-sacrifice and devotion as a guide for our own mission journey.

Here are a few companions to invite into your life this week—and all the weeks that follow...

St. Francis of Assisi who sacrificed status and wealth to follow the Gospel as a humble servant of the Lord.

St. Thérèse of Lisieux, a patron saint of the missions thanks to her constant prayers and letters in support of missionaries. She is a reminder that it is the little things that grow God’s kingdom.

The North American martyrs, eight Jesuit missioners who died heroically for their faith.

St. John Paul II who said at his elevation in 1978, “Swing wide the gates to Christ...” He devoted his life to serving the poor,

the oppressed, and to reconciliation among Christians.

Maryknoll missioners gave us examples of selfless devotion as well. I’m thinking of Bishop Francis Xavier Ford who was martyred for his faith in Communist China. And Bishop Patrick James Byrne who died on a forced march in Korea. In more recent times, we remember the heroism of Father Vincent Capodanno, M.M., the chaplain who died serving his men on a battlefield in Vietnam.

Friend, Paul’s message to the Hebrews says it all: “We are surrounded by a cloud of witnesses...” This week, find your own inspiration. Then dedicate your journey to a mission hero who will lead you home.

Next week’s mission lesson: Developing your personal missionary spirit.