Blessed Michał Tomaszek

Biography

Blessed Michał Tomaszek was a Franciscan Conventual priest and one of the Martyrs of Chimbote. He was born on September 23, 1960, in Lekawica, Zywiec, Poland. Growing up in a devout Catholic family, Michał developed a strong faith and a deep calling to serve God.

In his early years, Michał joined the Franciscan Conventual Order and pursued his studies in preparation for the priesthood. During this time, he showed great dedication and commitment to his faith, displaying a genuine love for God and compassion for others.

After completing his theological studies, Michał was ordained a priest and began his ministry. Just a few years into his priesthood, he felt a strong calling to take his missionary work abroad. In 1989, he was sent to serve in Peru, specifically in the Chimbote area.

Upon arriving in Chimbote, Michał immersed himself in the local community, seeking to understand and address the struggles faced by the people. He worked tirelessly to alleviate poverty, improve education, and provide spiritual guidance to the impoverished population.

Unfortunately, during this time, Peru was ravaged by the violent activities of the Shining Path Communist guerrillas. These extremists sought to spread their ideology through acts of terror and violence. Despite the risks involved, Michał fearlessly continued his missionary work, refusing to abandon the people he had pledged to serve.

On August 9, 1991, while traveling with his companion, Blessed Zbigniew Strzalkowski, Michał was kidnapped by members of the Shining Path group in the town of Pariacoto, Ancash, Peru. They were both brutally executed for their unwavering commitment to their faith and dedication to the service of others.

The martyrdom of Blessed Michał Tomaszek and Blessed Zbigniew Strzalkowski deeply impacted the Catholic community and highlighted the courage and devotion of these individuals in the face of extreme danger. Their sacrifice and selflessness became a powerful testament to the Christian faith.

In recognition of their martyrdom, Pope Francis declared the beatification of Blessed Micha≈Ç Tomaszek and Blessed Zbigniew Strzalkowski on December 5, 2015. The beatification ceremony took place at the Estadio Centenario Manuel Rivera Sánchez in Chimbote, Peru, with Cardinal Angelo Amato presiding over the celebration.

Today, Blessed Michał Tomaszek is venerated by the Catholic Church and remembered as a shining example of faith, compassion, and selflessness. His life and martyrdom continue to inspire others to live out their faith with unwavering dedication and to tirelessly serve those in need.