Pope Francis: Martyrs are still the 'life blood of the Church' Vatican City, Apr 7, 2016 / 01:37 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- Pope Francis on Thursday praised the consistency and courage of the modern day martyrs who continue to “carry the Church forward” even as they face death for their witness to the Risen Christ. Read more about Pope Francis: Martyrs are still the 'life blood of the Church'