Blessed Kolë Shllaku

Biography

Blessed Kolô Shllaku, also known as Brother Gjon, was born on 27 July 1907 in Shkodrô, Albania. He was the son of Loros and Marô Ashtôs.

Kolô Shllaku's early education included studying at Franciscan schools, where he developed a deep love and appreciation for the Catholic faith. Inspired by the Franciscan way of life, he became a Franciscan Friar Minor novice on 4 October 1922. After years of dedicated study and spiritual formation, he professed his perpetual vows on 13 September 1928, taking the name Gjon.

Gjon's thirst for knowledge and the desire to serve God led him to pursue further studies in theology. He traveled to the Netherlands and devoted himself to learning more about his faith. On 15 March 1931, he was ordained a priest, fully prepared to dedicate his life to the service of God and others.

In his relentless pursuit of knowledge, Gjon also studied science, history, and philosophy in Louvain, Belgium. His intellectual curiosity and passion for learning led him to further his education even more, and in 1937 he received a doctorate in philosophy from the prestigious Sorbonne University in Paris, France.

Returning to Albania, Father Gjon utilized his vast knowledge and skills by teaching philosophy and French to students at various levels. He also took on the role of a spiritual director, guiding and supporting his students in their faith journeys.

Not just a man of knowledge, Father Gjon was also known for his courageous stance against the rising powers of Fascism and Communism. His opposition to these oppressive ideologies ultimately led to his forced exile in Yugoslavia when the Italians invaded Albania.

Despite the dangers involved, Father Gjon returned home to Albania during World War II to minister to those suffering from privation and to speak out against the oppressive regime. He played a vital role in founding the Christian Democrats in Albania, championing democratic values and advocating for the rights and freedom of the people.

The Communist regime that took power after the war perceived Father Gjon as a threat due to his unwavering commitment to justice and truth. His fearless opposition to Fascism and Communism resulted in his arrest by the regime. The arrest took place in a classroom while he was delivering a lecture to his students.

Enduring months of torture in prison, Father Gjon remained steadfast in his faith and conviction. In a show trial that lacked any semblance of justice, he was found guilty of treason against the Communist government. On 22 February 1946, Father Gjon was sentenced to death.

At 6 am on 4 March 1946, a machine-gun squad executed Father Gjon at the cemetery in Shkodrô, Albania. His body was left out in the open for a day as a warning to those who dared to oppose the Communist regime. Finally, on the night of 5 March, he was buried with other martyrs in a mass grave near a nearby riverbed. The grave was concealed by stacking rubbish bins atop it, an attempt to erase his memory and sacrifice.

Father Gjon Shllaku's devotion to his faith, unwavering support for justice and freedom, and his ultimate sacrifice in the face of tyranny have made him a revered figure among the Catholic faithful. He was venerated on 26 April 2016 by Pope Francis, who declared him a martyr. On 5 November 2016, Pope Francis beatified Father Gjon Shllaku, celebrating the beatification at the Square of the Cathedral of Shôn Shtjefnit in Shkodôr, Albania, with Cardinal Angelo Amato presiding over the ceremony.

Blessed Kolô Shllaku serves as an inspirational example of someone who lived out their faith fearlessly, even in the face of immense hardships and persecution. His life and martyrdom continue to inspire Catholics around the world, reminding them of the importance of standing up for truth and justice, regardless of the personal cost.