Blessed Jerzy Popieluszko: Truth versus Totalitarianism

by Bernard Brien

"Listen, Father Jerzy, today is September 14, your birthday. So if you are supposed to do something, this is the day!" So prayed Father Bernard Brien beside the bed of a dying man. As soon as the priest left the hospital room, the comatose patient opened his eyes and asked his wife what had happened. A few days later his medical team, after many tests, observed that his widespread cancer had completely disappeared. The doctors were astounded. The miracle moved Father Brien to write this book about Blessed Jerzy Popiełuszko, to make the twentieth-century martyr better known. He presents an intimate portrait of the courageous Polish priest who changed his life and that of countless others. As the young and ardent chaplain of the Solidarity labor union, Father Popiełuszko embodied the Polish people's resistance to Communism, and for this he was murdered in 1984, at the age of thirty-seven, by the Communist regime's security forces. Soon afterward Father Popiełuszko was hailed as a martyr and a national hero, and his example inspired the Polish people to persevere in their struggle for political and religious freedom. Father Popiełuszko's witness of spiritual resistance, deeply rooted in the life of Christ, retains its relevance and urgency in the twenty-first century. The young Polish priest who stood up to Communist totalitarianism at the cost of his life will embolden those who resist tyranny and defend human dignity.

Genres: Catholic, Religion, Nonfiction, Biography

125 pages, Paperback

Published January 17, 2018

Reviews

[Robert Conder · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book is well worth reading. It tells the story of Father Popieluszko, who through his faith would not allow the government to break him. It is about standing up for truth even if it is against a government and it is about taking up our cross and saying, “I trust in you; do with me whatever you want!” Father Popieluszko stated, “You can crucify love and truth, but you cannot kill them.” The book is also about the writer finding his way back to God, a story that many of us can relate to and understand. I strongly recommend this book.

[Elkaza · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this simple read about the brave polish priest. It also informed me about what was having to Poland during its last days of communism, now understanding what solidarity means and how it was carried out. But, couldn’t give this book 5 stars as I felt there were a few editing mistakes. But, over all a must read for young Catholics today, as don’t give up your faith, as it will led to victory, even when it may lead to becoming a martyr.

[Zach Bald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely fantastic! A must for young Catholic guys like myself. Bl. Jerzy is truly an inspiration for young men, just like Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati!

[Jeena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written quick read. Do not read on an airplane too inspiring you will cry.

[Tony Genualdi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a first rate inspiration as the the power of one man with God on his side.

[Conor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful book about a beautiful soon-to-be-saint. There were a few annoying mistakes in the text but a great book.

[Caroline Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moved me to TEARS. Overcome evil with good! Jezu ufam tobie!! Bl. Jerzy, pray for us!!!!

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful and powerful book about a Polish hero and martyr. He will be a Saint, soon I hope.

[Cody Cichocki · Rating 3 out of 5]

It did a really good job in describing his public ministry, but I wish it focused more on his prayer and how Christ worked in his life! Really cool Blessed tho