Blessed Ivan Sleziuk

Biography

Blessed Ivan Sleziuk, also known as Ivan Slezyuk or John Sleziuk, was a Greek Catholic clergyman who dedicated his life to the service of God and his people. He was born on 14 January 1896 in Zhyvachiv, Stanislaviv District, Ukraine.

He was ordained as a priest in 1923 and served faithfully in various capacities within the church. In April 1945, he was appointed as a co-adjutor bishop, a position that reflected his dedication and leadership within the Greek Catholic community.

Tragically, on 2 June 1945, during a time of religious persecution under the communist regime, Blessed Ivan Sleziuk was arrested for his unwavering faith. He was subsequently sentenced to ten years of forced labor in the labor camps of Vorkuta, Russia. After enduring hardships and persecution, he was transferred to the labor camps in Mordovia in 1950.

Finally, on 15 November 1954, after nine years of suffering, Blessed Ivan Sleziuk was released from the labor camps and returned to his hometown of Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine. Despite the immense challenges he faced, he continued to serve his community with great dedication and zeal.

However, his unwavering faith and commitment to the Catholic Church subjected him to further persecution. In 1962, he was arrested once again and sentenced to an additional five years in the forced labor camps. He was released on 30 November 1968, following another period of immense suffering.

Throughout his life, Blessed Ivan Sleziuk was routinely interrogated by the KGB, the secret police of the Soviet Union. These interrogations aimed at undermining his faith and silencing his voice, but he remained steadfast in his beliefs.

His unwavering commitment and courageous resistance against religious persecution and suppression exemplified his immense faith and strength of character. He endured years of suffering and obstacles for his beliefs, serving as an inspiration to many.

Blessed Ivan Sleziuk's unwavering dedication and martyrdom were officially recognized on 24 April 2001 when he was venerated by Pope John Paul II. On 27 June 2001, he was beatified by Pope John Paul II in Ukraine. His feast day is celebrated on 2 December, commemorating the day of his death in 1973.

Blessed Ivan Sleziuk's life stands as a testament to his unwavering faith, resilience, and steadfast commitment to the Catholic Church. His courageous and sacrificial acts will continue to inspire generations to come.