Blessed Jerzy Kaszyra

Biography

Blessed Jerzy Kaszyra, also known as George Kashira, George Kaszyra, Juryj Kašyra, Giorgio, Jerzy, and Yuri, was born on 4 April 1904 in Aleksandravele, Vilniaus rajonas, Lithuania. He was raised in an Orthodox family but decided to convert to Roman Catholicism at the age of 18 in 1922.

In 1924, George joined the Marians of the Immaculate Conception in Druya, Belarus, and made his profession on 2 August 1929. He had a deep passion for theology and philosophy, which led him to study in Rome, Italy, and later at the seminary of Vilnius, Lithuania. After completing his studies, George was ordained a priest on 20 June 1935.

Father George dedicated himself to teaching catechism in Druja, and later went on to teach at the seminary in Vilnius. However, in 1938, the Polish authorities ordered him to end his pastoral work in western Belarus. Undeterred, he moved to the monastery of Rasno in eastern Belarus and continued his work there.

Unfortunately, in 1940, Soviet authorities forced Father George out of the monastery due to their atheist ideology. Despite this setback, Father George remained committed to his calling and traveled throughout Belarus and Lithuania, seeking shelter in various monasteries while continuing his pastoral work.

Tragically, on 18 February 1943, Father George and several other Catholics were accused by the occupying Nazi forces of aiding the partisans. They were locked in the basement of a church in Rositsa and the building was set on fire, resulting in their deaths. Father George was bravely martyred for his faith and dedication to God.

Blessed Jerzy Kaszyra is remembered as one of the 108 Martyrs of World War II and is honored on their feast day, which is celebrated on 18 February. Additionally, he is also remembered on 12 June as part of the collective feast day for the 108 Martyrs.

Pope John Paul II recognized the martyrdom of Blessed Jerzy Kaszyra and proclaimed him venerable on 26 March 1999. On 13 June 1999, Pope John Paul II beatified him, elevating him to the status of Blessed in the Catholic Church.

As a courageous martyr who endured persecution and ultimately sacrificed his life for his faith, Blessed Jerzy Kaszyra is a shining example of steadfast commitment and dedication to God. He continues to inspire the faithful to this day.