Blessed Oleksa Zarytsky

Biography

Blessed Oleksa Zarytsky, also known as Oleksa Zaritskiy, Oleksa Zaryckyj, Oleksa Zaryts’kyi, Aleksey, Alessio, or Alexis, was a Greek Catholic priest and martyr of the Catholic Church. He was born on 17 October 1912 in Bilche, Lviv District, Ukraine.

Oleksa Zarytsky entered the seminary in Lviv in 1931, where he underwent his religious formation. He dedicated himself to the study of theology and the service of God, showing great devotion to his faith throughout his life.

After completing his studies, Zarytsky was ordained as a priest in 1936. Following his ordination, he served as a pastor in the Archeparchy of Lviv for the Ukrainians, ministering to the spiritual needs of his parishioners and guiding them in their faith.

Despite his dedication to his calling, Zarytsky faced severe persecution for his religious beliefs. In 1948, he was imprisoned for his faith and received a ten-year sentence in the forced labor camps. He was sent to Karaganda, a notorious prison camp in Kazakhstan, where he endured harsh conditions and persecution.

After serving his ten-year sentence, Zarytsky was released in 1957, only to be arrested again shortly after for his unwavering religious convictions. He was sentenced to an additional three years of imprisonment. It was during this period of incarceration that Zarytsky's health deteriorated, and he suffered from gastritis and complications arising from high blood pressure.

Tragically, Blessed Oleksa Zarytsky died on 30 October 1963, still imprisoned in the forced labor camp at Karaganda. Despite the hardships and challenges he faced throughout his life, Zarytsky remained steadfast in his faith and his commitment to serving God and his fellow prisoners.

Recognizing the exemplary life and martyrdom of Oleksa Zarytsky, the Catholic Church venerated him on 24 April 2001, with Pope John Paul II decreeing him a martyr. On 27 June 2001, Pope John Paul II officially beatified him during a ceremony held in Ukraine, honoring his sacrifice and dedication to his faith.

The life of Blessed Oleksa Zarytsky serves as an inspiring example of unwavering faith in the face of persecution and adversity. His willingness to endure suffering for his beliefs and his commitment to serving others continue to inspire and offer guidance to believers around the world.