I recently learned the story of Servant God Michelle Duppong, and I was deeply inspired and touched by her witness and example. She is an American, she was a FOCUS missionary, and Director of Adult Faith Formation for the Diocese of Bismarck. I thought she would be a wonderful patron to encourage us to evangelize the youth and teach the Faith, so I wanted to share her story with you today.

Who is Servant of God Michelle Duppong?

Michelle was born in 1984, and grew up on a farm with her parents and 5 siblings in North Dakota. She loved 4-wheeling and enjoying picnics on the beautiful land. She was on fire for Christ, and was described as a shining light to anyone who met her. She dedicated years to serving as a FOCUS missionary, and worked for 2 years as the DRE for Adult Faith Formation in the Diocese of Bismarck.

She lived for one year after being diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer, and she bravely endured immense suffering during that last year of her life. She felt herself united to Jesus on the cross during that year, and she offered up every bit of that suffering for the salvation of souls. She died in 2015 on Christmas Day.

The Michelle Duppong Guild

When a cause for canonization is opened up, a guild is established to spread the word about the holy person. You can learn all about Michelle and support her cause for canonization by visiting michelleduppongcause.org.

Michelle Duppong: Hope in the Depths of Suffering

by Patti Maguire Armstrong with Stephanie Parks

Published by Sophia Institute Press

This book was the way that I was introduced to the inspiring and holy woman. I love how she grew up in very average (but holy) circumstances. The book is written like a story that weaves together her life in a way that makes it easy to follow. Throughout the book, there are stories from her family and friends that make it so personal and real. There are also powerful excerpts from her speeches and writings. This book is a must read for all Catholics – especially catechists.

Michelle’s Message

It was mentioned in the book that “the Faith isn’t taught, it’s caught.” Yes, knowing scripture and the Catechism is essential to live as Catholics, but knowing Christ and having a relationship with Him is what makes us holy. Michelle was always trying to help others have an encounter with Christ. She was always planning Eucharistic processions, and bringing people to Mass.

She also prayed a simple prayer: for people to have an encounter with Him.  This was so powerful to me as a parent and catechist. The most important message that I got from this book and from Michelle’s life was to live my Faith as authentically and genuinely as possible. Michelle always made the Sacraments, prayer, and scripture a priority in her life. She knew that her soul and the soul of others depended on this faithful relationship.

If I allow Christ to abide in me, hopefully that’s one way He can reach others. I must allow myself to encounter Him and His Presence as much as possible, and I must always lovingly bring others to Him so He can meet them where they are at.

This book is also available on the Sophia Institute Santifi app as an ebook and audiobook.

Radiating Joy: The Michelle Duppong Story

As soon as I finished the book, I immediately watched the documentary that was made about Michelle. It was amazing to see people I read about in the book on the screen. I highly recommend both the movie and book to get to know about Michelle’s life!

You can watch the movie on EWTN or Formed.