Blessed Jan Oprzadek

Biography

Blessed Jan Oprzadek, also known as Marcin Oprzadek, Martino Giovanni Oprzadek, or Martin Oprzadek, was born on 4 March 1884 in Koscielec, in the diocese of Krakow, Poland. He entered the Franciscan Friars Minor in the province of Saint Mary of the Angels in 1912, dedicating himself to a life of prayer, poverty, and service to God.

In 1914, during World War I, Jan Oprzadek was drafted into military service. After the war, he returned to his Franciscan community and on 4 October 1924, he made his solemn profession, taking the name Marcin. Marcin Oprzadek was ordained a priest and continued to serve the faithful with great devotion and humility.

Tragically, during the Nazi persecutions, Marcin Oprzadek was arrested on 26 August 1940 along with several other friars. He was taken to the Sachsenhausen concentration camp, where he endured immense suffering and persecution for his faith. Despite the harsh conditions, Marcin's unwavering faith and love for God sustained him during this time of trial.

Later, he was transferred to the Hartheim extermination center in Austria. On 18 May 1942, Marcin Oprzadek, along with numerous other victims, met a martyr's death in the gas chambers of Hartheim. His courageous witness to the Gospel and unwavering commitment to his Catholic faith even in the face of extreme cruelty and persecution made him a true martyr of the faith.

Blessed Jan Oprzadek is honored and venerated as one of the 108 Martyrs of World War II. Their feast day is celebrated on 12 June. Additionally, Jan Oprzadek has an individual feast day on 18 May, the day of his martyrdom.

On 26 March 1999, Pope John Paul II declared Jan Oprzadek's martyrdom with a decree, recognizing his heroic virtues and acknowledging the sacrifice he made for his faith. The beatification ceremony took place on 13 June 1999, where Pope John Paul II officially elevated Jan Oprzadek to the status of Blessed.

Blessed Jan Oprzadek, through his profound faith and sacrifice, continues to inspire and intercede for all those who face persecution and hardship for their beliefs. His life serves as a reminder of the unwavering courage and dedication of the Catholic martyrs who have gone before us.