Friday, May 29, 2015

Blessed Joseph Kowalski, SDB, Salesian Martyr of Auschwitz

Blessed Joseph Kowalski, SDB
Salesian martyr of Auschwitz

“I have to become a saint because this is what I am intended for."

After Poland was occupied, the Salesians continued their work of educating young people.

On May 23rd, 1941: The Gestapo captured Fr. Kowalski along with eleven other Salesians working in Krakow.

At Auschwitz, Fr. Kowalski was given number 17.350.

In secret, he heard confessions, celebrated Mass, said the Rosary, gave clandestine talks, strengthen his fellow prisoners...

He underwent suffering and humiliation.

When he was discovered with a rosary, he refused to trample on it. He was then killed on July 4th, 1942.

What an inspiration as we come to the end of the Month of Mary.

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