COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — The local bishop has announced a plan to evaluate the potential for sainthood for Kendrick Castillo, an 18-year-old who heroically intervened during a school shooting in 2019, ultimately sacrificing his life to protect fellow students. Bishop James R. Golka of Colorado Springs expressed his intention to look into this significant endeavor, spotlighting Kendrick’s courage amid tragedy.
On May 7, 2019, Kendrick was the only student killed in the devastating STEM School Highlands Ranch shooting, which also injured eight others. His brave actions, which included tackling the assailant, helped prevent further loss of life, as confirmed by local authorities. The shooters, two students aged 16 and 18, were later convicted and sentenced to life in prison for their crimes.
Months following Kendrick’s death, the Knights of Columbus honored him posthumously with honorary membership and presented his parents with the Caritas Medal, their second-highest recognition. This acknowledgment was part of a broader effort to celebrate Kendrick’s life and actions, highlighting the impact he made in a brief yet meaningful existence.
Father Patrick DiLoreto and Father Gregory Bierbaum from St. Mark Catholic Church in Highlands Ranch are leading the charge for Kendrick’s sainthood cause, having submitted substantial documentation which includes interviews with Kendrick’s parents. Father DiLoreto expressed how visiting Kendrick Castillo Way inspired him to pursue this process, viewing it as a sign from the Holy Spirit to advocate for the young man’s legacy.
Father Bierbaum, who did not know Kendrick personally but has followed his story closely, attended the funeral and has been touched by Kendrick’s exemplary Christian faith. He recalled that Kendrick often engaged his peers in discussions about faith and was deeply involved in his church community.
Kendrick’s father, John Castillo, highlighted his son’s enthusiasm for education and technology, sharing that Kendrick was preparing to study aerospace engineering when tragedy struck. His commitment to robotics and engineering led to his transition to a school better suited to his talents, a decision praised by a teacher at his previous Catholic school.
In footage honoring Kendrick from a recent event, John recounted how Kendrick embodied the teachings he received in Catholic school and brought those values to a public charter school, forming friendships effortlessly through his warm personality.
The Knights of Columbus have been active in commemorating Kendrick’s life, with initiatives underway to establish a monument in his honor and create a scholarship fund focused on robotics. His life, according to the criteria established for potential sainthood, may qualify under categories including martyrdom and the display of heroic virtue, thanks to the actions he took to save others.
Bishop Golka underscored Kendrick’s extraordinary character in a recent statement, inviting the community to seek his intercession in prayers, especially for the youth. Following the announcement, many in the community have already been doing so, reflecting Kendrick’s enduring influence on their lives even after his passing.
As discussions on his potential sainthood continue, Kendrick Castillo’s legacy is already proving to be a source of inspiration, urging others to act with courage and selflessness in the face of adversity.