Blessed Stefan Wincenty Frelichowski

Biography

Blessed Stefan Wincenty Frelichowski was born on 22 January 1913 in Chelmza, Poland. After completing his studies at the diocesan seminary in Pelpin, he was ordained as a Catholic priest on 13 March 1937. Throughout his life, he was known for his deep devotion to the Sacred Heart.

Following his ordination, Blessed Stefan served as the secretary to his bishop and later became a curate at the church of Saint Mary in Torun, Poland. He actively participated in parish life and served as a chaplain to the Boy Scouts, guiding and inspiring young boys in their spiritual journeys.

Sadly, Blessed Stefan's peaceful life took a tragic turn with the outbreak of World War II. In 1939, he was arrested by the Gestapo and endured imprisonment in various concentration camps, including Fort Seven, Stutthof, Grenzdorf, Oranienburg-Sachsenhausen, and finally Dachau. Despite the harsh conditions and constant threat to his own life, he remained steadfast in his faith, offering spiritual support to his fellow prisoners and becoming their spiritual leader.

During his time in the concentration camps, Blessed Stefan contracted typhus while caring for fellow prisoners who were suffering from the disease. His selfless act of charity in the face of extreme adversity ultimately led to his own death. He passed away on 23 February 1945, succumbing to typhus at the Dachau concentration camp in Germany.

Blessed Stefan Wincenty Frelichowski was recognized for his virtuous life and the heroic manner in which he lived out his faith. On 26 March 1999, Pope John Paul II declared him venerable, acknowledging his martyrdom of charity. Just a few months later, on 7 June 1999, Pope John Paul II beatified him during a ceremony held in Torun, Poland.

Today, Blessed Stefan serves as an inspirational figure, reminding us of the power of love, selflessness, and unwavering faith even in times of great suffering. His life and martyrdom continue to inspire countless people around the world. He is commemorated annually on 23 February, the day of his death, as a testament to his extraordinary witness and devotion to Christ and his fellow human beings.