On the 41st anniversary of Father Jerzy Popiełuszki’s kidnapping and martyrdom, Bishop Karol Nawrocki paid tribute at his grave in Warsaw, reaffirming his steadfast faith.
Bishop Nawrocki Reflects on Popiełuszki’s Legacy
“He did not withdraw at the hour of trial,” Bishop Karol Nawrocki said, underscoring the priest’s unwavering courage. He highlighted that living in truth, living for truth, and dying for truth are the three most difficult paths—paths that Father Popiełuszki, the chaplain of Solidarity, traversed without fear of the communist dictatorship.
Nawrocki stood over Popiełuszki’s grave, saying, “Today, standing above your resting place, we can only bow our heads, thanking you for your sacrifice; without yours, our freedom would not exist.”
The bishop also attended the Holy Mass at St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, the site of Popiełuszki’s pastoral work, where his grave lies. The ceremony honored the enduring spirit of the priest’s ministry.
Mass for Popiełuszki’s Canonization
On Sunday at 5:00 p.m. in Warsaw’s Żoliborz sanctuary, Metropolitan Archbishop Adrian Galbas will lead a Mass in the intendment of canonizing the martyr priest. He will be joined by Popiełuszki’s family, state officials, and representatives of Solidarity.
The event’s theme, derived from Popiełuszki’s words, is “Truth is Immortal.” Custodian Karol Oparcik noted that, even in wartime, the priest’s teachings continue to resonate, urging solidarity and unity against injustice.
The Kidnapping and Murder of Popiełuszki
On October 19, 1984, Father Jerzy Popiełuszki was kidnapped and brutally murdered by SB officers. A 37‑year‑old chaplain of Solidarity and defender of human rights in the Polish People’s Republic, he was declared a martyr and beatified in 2010. His canonization process is ongoing.
