Stanley Rother documentary opens in theaters

The extraordinary journey of Blessed Stanley Rother, the Oklahoma-born missionary priest whose unwavering faith and service inspired generations of Catholics around the world, is coming to theatres from the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. 

Narrated by Academy Award^® Nominee Martin Sheen, “American Martyr: The Stanley Rother Story” is a feature-length documentary that will debut in theatres nationwide for a special two-night release on Aug. 26-27, 2026. 

“American Martyr: The Stanley Rother Story” is produced by Lampstand Story Company and distributed by Fathom Entertainment, the leading specialty distributor of content to theatrical partners worldwide. 

Born on a wheat farm in Oklahoma, Father Stanley Rother devoted his life to serving the indigenous Tz'utujil people of Santiago Atitlán, Guatemala. He immersed himself in their culture, learned their language and helped translate the New Testament into Tz'utujil, becoming a beloved shepherd to the community he served.

As violence escalated during Guatemala's civil war and his name appeared on a death list, Father Rother was urged to leave. Instead, he chose to return to his parishioners, guided by his conviction that "the shepherd cannot run." His decision ultimately led to his murder in 1981 and, decades later, recognition as the first American-born priest officially declared a martyr by the Catholic Church.

“Blessed Stanley Rother's story begins in the fields of Oklahoma and leads to the mountains of Guatemala, where he gave his life in service to the people he loved,” said Archbishop Paul Coakley of Oklahoma City. “Faced with credible threats to his life, he could have remained safely at home. Instead, he chose to return to his parish because he believed a shepherd does not abandon his flock. His witness of courage, fidelity and sacrificial love is as relevant today as ever. ‘American Martyr: The Stanley Rother Story’ offers audiences an opportunity to encounter the inspiring true story of a remarkable priest whose faith led him to the ultimate act of discipleship.” 
 “Blessed Stanley Rother was an ordinary man who responded to God's call with extraordinary courage, ultimately laying down his life for the people he served in Guatemala,” said María Ruiz Scaperlanda, the promoter of Blessed Stanley Rother’s Cause for Canonization. “Through American Martyr: The Stanley Rother Story, audiences will encounter not only a compelling true story, but also a powerful example of holiness, sacrifice and missionary discipleship. My hope is that this film will inspire countless people to discover Blessed Stanley's life, seek his intercession and recognize that sainthood is possible for ordinary men and women who faithfully follow Christ wherever he leads.”

Through firsthand testimonies, historical footage and immersive storytelling, “American Martyr: The Stanley Rother Story” brings to life the courage, faith and enduring legacy of a humble American priest whose witness continues to inspire people around the world. 
In 2017, Pope Francis formally recognized Father Rother's martyrdom and beatified him, further cementing his place in Catholic history.

For more information about the film, to view the trailer and receive exclusive updates, visit www.rotherdoc.com. 

Tickets for “American Martyr: The Stanley Rother Story” are available online and at participating theatre box offices (theatre locations subject to change). For more information visit FathomEntertainment.com.

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