Blessed Bogumila Noiszewska

Biography

Blessed Bogumila Noiszewska, also known as Maria Eva Noiszewska and Maria Ewa of Providence, was born on June 11, 1885, in Uzumiskiai, Vilniaus rajonas, Lithuania. She later joined the Sisters of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin, taking the name Maria Ewa of Providence. Known for her unwavering commitment to her faith, she dedicated her life to teaching as a school teacher in Slonim, Belarus.

During World War II, Blessed Bogumila Noiszewska courageously offered assistance to Jews who were being persecuted by the Nazis. Despite the extreme danger and threat to her own life, she played a pivotal role in hiding and protecting Jews, demonstrating immense compassion and solidarity. Her act of defiance became a symbol of resistance against the oppressive regime.

However, her heroic actions did not go unnoticed by the Nazis, and she was eventually captured, imprisoned, and sentenced to death for her involvement in aiding the persecuted. On December 19, 1942, in Slonim, Minskaya voblasts’, Belarus, Blessed Bogumila Noiszewska was executed, thus sealing her martyrdom and everlasting legacy as a courageous defender of human rights.

Blessed Bogumila Noiszewska's selfless sacrifice and steadfast commitment to her faith earned her the veneration of the Catholic Church. On March 26, 1999, Pope John Paul II acknowledged her martyrdom through a decree, recognizing her as a true servant of God. Subsequently, on June 13, 1999, Pope John Paul II beatified her in Warsaw, Poland, elevating her to the status of "Blessed."

Today, Blessed Bogumila Noiszewska stands as an inspiration to all believers, reminding us of the importance of compassion, solidarity, and standing up against injustice. Her life serves as a testimony to the power of faith and the willingness to sacrifice for the well-being of others. The feast days dedicated to her are celebrated on December 19 and June 12 as part of the commemoration of the 108 Martyrs of World War II, a group she is counted among.