Blessed Józef Jankowski

Biography

Blessed Józef Jankowski, also known as "prisoner 16895", was born on 17 November 1910 in Czyczkowy, Kujawsko-Pomorskie, Poland. He was the second of eight children born to Robert and Michalina Jankowski. From a young age, Józef felt a calling to the priesthood and in 1929, at the age of 19, he joined the Pallottines, a Catholic religious community founded by St. Vincent Pallotti.

After completing his initial formation, Józef made his final vows on 5 August 1931. He continued his studies and was ordained as a priest on 2 August 1936 in the archdiocese of Gniezno, Poland. Following his ordination, Father Józef dedicated himself to ministry, particularly to children and young people. He served as a chaplain and catechist in schools in the O≈Çtarzew area in Poland, working tirelessly to nurture the faith of the younger generation.

On 31 March 1941, Father Józef was appointed as the seminary treasurer and director of novices, taking on additional responsibilities within the Pallottine community. Throughout his life, he exhibited a deep interior spiritual life and had a strong devotion to Saint Teresa of Avila, who inspired him in his journey of faith.

Tragically, Józef Jankowski fell victim to the Nazi persecutions during World War II. In occupied Poland, he was arrested and taken to the prison camp at Oswiecim, known as Auschwitz. There, he was subjected to torture and ultimately beaten to death by a guard on 16 October 1941, at the age of 30.

Father Józef Jankowski is remembered as a faithful servant of God, who lived out his vocation with love and dedication, especially in his outreach to children and young people. His martyrdom and sacrifice are a powerful testament to his unwavering faith and commitment to his beliefs, even in the face of immense persecution.

The Catholic Church recognized the sanctity of Józef Jankowski's life and his martyrdom. Pope John Paul II, himself a native of Poland, venerated Father Józef on 26 March 1999 through a decree of martyrdom. Later, on 13 June 1999, Pope John Paul II beatified him in Warsaw, Poland, raising him to the rank of Blessed.

Today, Blessed Józef Jankowski is honored and celebrated as one of the 108 Martyrs of World War II. His feast day is celebrated on 16 October, the day of his martyrdom, as well as on 12 June, in commemoration of the collective feast day for all the martyrs of World War II. His courageous and faithful witness continues to inspire Catholics around the world, particularly those who face persecution for their beliefs.