Bishop Francis X. Ford, M.M., Legacy Society
Honoring a Life of Mission and Sacrifice
Bishop Francis X. Ford, M.M., was born in Brooklyn, New York, on January 11, 1892. From an early age, he was shaped by a family deeply rooted in faith and dedication—his father was editor of The Freeman’s Journal and a steadfast champion of Irish freedom. Inspired by Maryknoll’s co-founder, Father James A. Walsh, young Francis discerned his vocation and became the very first student to join the newly founded Catholic Foreign Mission Society of America.
Ordained in 1917, he was part of the first group of Maryknoll missioners to depart for China, where he would spend the rest of his life in service. In 1935 he was consecrated the first Bishop of Kaying, dedicating his episcopacy to caring for the poor and countless refugees during the upheavals of war. His prayer—“Grant us…to be the doorstep by which the multitudes may come to Thee”—became the guiding vision of his ministry.
Bishop Ford remained steadfast even in the face of persecution. After the Communist takeover of China, he was arrested on December 23, 1950, and endured imprisonment marked by suffering and humiliation. On February 21, 1952, he gave his life for the faith he so courageously professed. A Pontifical Requiem Mass was later celebrated at Maryknoll, with Bishop Fulton Sheen preaching the eulogy. Today Bishop Ford is remembered as a martyr of the faith and a shining example of missionary commitment.
Continuing His Legacy
The Bishop Francis X. Ford, M.M., Legacy Society honors his life of faith, sacrifice, and witness. By including Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers in your estate plan—through a will, trust, charitable annuity, or other planned gift—you help ensure that his vision of bringing Christ’s love to the world will continue for generations to come.
Membership in the Legacy Society is our way of saying thank you for your foresight and generosity. Just as Bishop Ford gave his life so that others might know Christ, your legacy gift will bring hope, healing, and the Gospel to communities around the world.
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