40th Anniversary of the Martyrdom of Bl. Jerzy Popiełuszko

5:00-6:00 p.m.

Silent Relic Veneration and Refreshments

6:00-8:30 p.m.

Introduction and Movie Screening:"Messenger of the Truth"

Father Jerzy Popiełuszko was a Polish Catholic priest who was murdered by the Communist regime on October 19, 1984. His sermons were broadcast by Radio Free Europe, making the Polish priest well known for his uncompromising stance against the regime. Fr. Jerzy’s heroic priestly witness and brutal martyrdom helped to mobilize Poland to stand united in the defense of religion and the dignity of the human person.

St. John Paul II prayed at the grave of Fr. Popiełuszko during his third papal visit to Poland. His cause for canonization was opened on March 15, 1996, during JPII’s papacy.

Host or Publisher Saint John Paul II National Shrine