Blessed Clemens August Von Galen

Biography

Blessed Clemens August von Galen, also known as the Lion of Münster, was born on 16 March 1878 at Dinklage Castle in Lower Saxony, Germany. He came from one of the oldest German noble families and felt a deep connection to his homeland throughout his life. Von Galen was ordained as a priest on 28 May 1904 in Münster, Germany, and later became the bishop of Münster on 5 September 1933.

Von Galen was a staunch anti-Communist and a vocal opponent of the Stalinist regime. He firmly believed in defending human dignity and fought against the injustices perpetrated by totalitarian governments. His strong nationalist sentiments led him to vehemently oppose the Nazi Party, their programs, and policies. He fearlessly spoke out against their ideology and worked tirelessly to protect the rights and lives of those targeted by the Nazis.

One of von Galen's most notable contributions was his opposition to the Nazi program of "euthanasia." This program aimed to systematically murder individuals deemed unworthy of life, including the old, the crippled, and the ill. Known for his eloquent sermons, von Galen delivered three powerful speeches in 1941 condemning the Nazis' actions and advocating for the protection of all human life. With his strong moral stance and powerful rhetoric, von Galen played a crucial role in mobilizing resistance against this horrific program.

In recognition of his unwavering faith and his courageous actions, Clemens August von Galen was created a Cardinal-Priest of San Bernardo alle Terme by Pope Pius XII on 18 February 1946. However, just a month later, on 22 March 1946, von Galen passed away in Münster due to natural causes. He was interred in the cathedral of Münster, where his tomb continues to be a place of veneration.

In recognition of his exemplary life and heroic virtues, Pope John Paul II declared Clemens August von Galen venerable on 20 December 2003. Later, on 9 October 2005, Pope Benedict XVI beatified him in a ceremony celebrated by Cardinal Saraiva Martins at Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome, Italy. The beatification miracle, which contributed to the official recognition of von Galen's holiness, involved the healing of Hendrikus Nahak, a 16-year-old Indonesian boy suffering from a dangerous form of appendicitis in 1995. After his nurse called on Cardinal von Galen to intercede on the boy's behalf, Nahak's health improved miraculously.

Blessed Clemens August von Galen's life serves as an inspiring example of unwavering faith, moral courage, and dedication to defending the dignity of every human life. He continues to be honored and venerated as a beloved figure in the Catholic Church.