Father Jerzy Popieluszko: A Polish Priest's Stand Against Totalitarianism

Father Bernard Brien whispered beside the bed of Father Jerzy, a Polish priest and soon-to-be blessed, on September 14, his birthday. Urging him to act if he wished, he prayed fervently. As Father Bernard left the hospital room, the comatose Jerzy miraculously awoke, surprising his wife. Days later, doctors discovered his cancer had vanished, leaving them amazed by the unexpected turn of events.

Father Brien was inspired by a miracle to create an e-book celebrating the life of Blessed Jerzy Popieluszko, a revered Polish priest and martyr of the twentieth century. Through this work, Father Brien offers readers an intimate and compelling portrait of how Father Popieluszko courageously transformed not only his own life but also the lives of countless others.

Blessed Father Jerzy Popieluszko, the dedicated and youthful chaplain of the Solidarity labor union, symbolized the Polish people's defiance against Communism. Tragically, he was assassinated in 1984 at the young age of thirty-seven by the Communist regime's security forces. Following his death, Father Popieluszko was revered as a martyr and a national hero. His courageous stance inspired the Polish community to persist in their pursuit of both political and religious freedom.

Father Popieluszko’s witness of non secular resistance, deeply rooted within the lifetime of Christ, retains its relevance and urgency within the twenty-first century. The younger Polish priest who stood as much as Communist totalitarianism at the price of his life will embolden those that resist tyranny and defend human dignity.