Blessed Jozef Kowalski

Biography

Blessed Jozef Kowalski, also known as Joseph Kowalski, was born on March 13, 1911, in Siedliska, Podkarpackie, Poland. He received his education at the local state elementary school and later attended the Salesian school in Auschwitz. Known for his dedication to his faith from an early age, Joseph became a member of the Holy Brigade, an unofficial group at the Salesian school that focused on the spiritual life of the students.

Deepening his commitment to the Salesian order, Joseph joined the Salesians in 1927 and was ordained as a priest in 1938. Throughout his ministry, he held various roles, including serving as the personal secretary of the Salesian provincial. Joseph became well-known for his work in youth ministry, conducting conferences, teaching, hearing confessions, and forming a youth choir.

Joseph's dedication to providing non-approved youth programs would ultimately lead to his arrest. On May 23, 1941, he was taken into custody along with eleven other Salesians while at the church of Mary Help of Christians in Krakow, Poland, by the Nazis. They were accused of organizing activities that were not sanctioned by the regime. Subjected to harsh treatment and interrogations, Joseph remained steadfast in his commitment to his faith and his duties as a priest.

In June 1942, Joseph was scheduled to be transported to the Dachau concentration camp. However, a Nazi officer, who disapproved of his attitude, subjected him to a severe beating and ordered him to stomp on his rosary as a sign of renunciation. Unyielding in his faith, Joseph refused to comply with the officer's demands. As a consequence, he was assigned to a hard labor gang within the Auschwitz concentration camp.

Despite the difficult circumstances, Joseph continued to minister to his fellow prisoners, providing spiritual guidance and support to those in need. His compassion and unwavering commitment to his faith left a profound impact on those around him. Unfortunately, his selflessness did not go unnoticed by the camp guards, who subjected him to further beatings, torture, and persecution.

Tragically, on July 3, 1942, Joseph met his untimely death when he was drowned in a cesspool within the Auschwitz concentration camp. His execution was senseless and without any particular reason, a testament to the cruelty and brutality of the camp guards. The martyrdom of Joseph Kowalski firmly places him among the 108 Polish Martyrs of World War II, a group of individuals who sacrificed their lives for their beliefs.

In recognition of his profound faith and sacrifice, Joseph Kowalski was venerated by Pope John Paul II on March 26, 1999, with a decree of martyrdom. On June 13, 1999, Pope John Paul II beatified him during a ceremony held in Warsaw, Poland. Blessed Jozef Kowalski's feast days are celebrated on July 4 and June 12, the latter being in commemoration of his inclusion among the 108 Polish Martyrs of World War II. His life and ministry serve as an inspiration, reminding us of the strength of conviction and the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of others.