"The Church, then, considers martyrdom as an exceptional gift and as the fullest proof of love. By martyrdom a disciple is transformed into an image of his Master by freely accepting death for the salvation of the world—as well as his conformity to Christ in the shedding of his blood. Though few are presented such an opportunity, nevertheless all must be prepared to confess Christ before men. They must be prepared to make this profession of faith even in the midst of persecutions, which will never be lacking to the Church, in following the way of the cross." - Lumen Gentium 42
According to Dr. Asci and the Early Church Fathers, the way to live out Christianity in a pagan society is to become a martyr. As our society becomes more neo-pagan by the day, this seems less and less foreign a concept. Whether we are called to a red or white death, we all have to be ready. True Love is shown through suffering...
