New Hampshire bishop warns clergy to prepare for ‘new era of martyrdom’
January 18, 2026
A New Hampshire Episcopal bishop is drawing national attention for urging clergy to prepare for a “new era of martyrdom.” Bishop Rob Hirschfeld of the Episcopal Church of New Hampshire made these comments earlier this month at a vigil for Renee Good, who was fatally shot by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer. Hirschfeld cited historical clergy who risked their lives for others, including Jonathan Daniels, a seminary student killed in 1965 while protecting a civil rights activist. Hirschfeld emphasized that Christians should not fear death, urging readiness to stand up for the vulnerable.