Father Edward Flanagan: A Step Closer to Sainthood

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An Irish-born priest who founded a home for needy boys in America has moved closer to St. Hood.

Father Edward Flanagan, born in 1886, created boys town in Nebraska starting in 1921.

It began as a farm-turned village for orphaned and poor youths during tough times after World War I.

Flanagan saw how neglect led kids to trouble, so he built a self-contained community with schools, a hospital, and even its own police.

Opened to boys of all races and fates, it grew quickly from a small shelter in Omaha.

His work inspired the 1938 movie Boys Town, which won two Oscars, including Best Actor for Spencer Tracy.

Church leaders in Ireland and America celebrated the news this week.

The Pope declared Flanagan's heroic virtues, naming him venerable alongside five others.

Bishop Kevin Dorian called him a model of Christian living, especially relevant today amid child homelessness.

Boys Town still thrives as a historic landmark, serving over 3.5 million families last year with health care and crisis help.

Staff their praise Flanagan as a visionary who believed every child deserves love and a real shot at life.

His legacy reminds us that one person's bold action can change countless lives for generations.