James Martin Gillis, Paulist

Today marks the death of James Martin Gillis (1876-1957), priest, editor, and author. Born in Boston, he studied for the diocesan priesthood before joining the Paulist Fathers in 1900. Ordained in 1901, he served in the mission field until he was named editor of The Catholic World, the journal established in 1865 by Paulist founder Isaac Hecker. A strong conservative and a strident anticommunist, Gillis promoted his message through the journal, his syndicated column “Sursum Corda” (“lift up your hearts”), his radio program on “The Catholic Hour,” his preaching, and his books. Gillis retired as editor of The Catholic World in 1948, but he kept active as a writer and preacher until his death.