Blessed Franz Jägerstätter

Biography

Blessed Franz Jágerstátter, also known as Franz Jaegerstaetter, was born on May 20, 1907 in Sankt Radegund, Ober√∂sterreich, Austria. He was born to Rosalia Huber and Franz Bachmeier, who were both servants and too poor to get married. Tragically, Franz's father died in World War I when Franz was just a young boy. Following his father's death, his mother married local farmer Heinrich Jágerstátter, who adopted Franz and raised him as his own.

Although Franz had limited formal education, his adoptive father Heinrich was committed to ensuring that he could read and educate himself. Franz worked in the iron ore industry for three years from the age of 20. During his early 20s, he led a rather reckless and dissolute life. However, in his late 20s, he decided to settle down and embraced a life as a peasant farmer. At this time, Franz also became deeply committed to his faith, married, and became the loving father of three daughters.

Franz served as the sacristan for his parish, taking care of funeral and prayer services. He wholeheartedly dedicated himself to his faith, attending Mass daily and developing a special ministry to support the bereaved. Franz became well-known for his vocal criticism of the Nazis, standing out as the only person in his village who voted against Austrian unification with Germany in 1938. In response to the ubiquitous Nazi greeting "Heil Hitler," Franz famously countered with "Pfui Hitler." Due to his unwavering beliefs, Franz experienced social isolation within his own community.

When drafted into the army of the Third Reich, Franz encountered a profound conflict between his military service and his faith. After initially serving briefly behind the lines, he made the courageous decision to refuse further military service. As a result, he was arrested and imprisoned in both Linz, Austria, and Berlin, Germany. He underwent a military trial and was ultimately executed by beheading in Brandenburg an der Havel on August 9, 1943.

During his time in prison, Franz turned to prayer, supported fellow prisoners, and composed a series of heartfelt letters and essays. Despite the risks, he remained steadfast in his belief that it was incompatible with his faith to serve in the Nazi army. His moral courage and unwavering commitment to his principles marked him as a true martyr.

Recognizing his martyrdom, Pope Benedict XVI declared Franz Jágerstátter venerable on June 1, 2007. Later that same year, on October 26, 2007, Pope Benedict XVI beatified Franz, bestowing upon him the title of Blessed Franz Jágerstátter.

Today, Franz Jágerstátter stands as a shining example of unwavering faith, moral integrity, and steadfast resistance in the face of injustice. His life and sacrifice continue to inspire and challenge people to stand against evil and remain faithful to their beliefs, even in the most challenging circumstances.