Pope sends message for 100th
anniversary of Polish Independence
Pope Francis sends a message to the President of the Polish
Bishop’s conference, Archbishop Stanisław Gądecki, on the occasion of the 100th
anniversary of Poland’s independence, commending Poles for their pursuit of
freedom.
By Francesca Merlo
November 11th marks the end of the first world war and the
day that Poland regained its independence after the Russian, Prussian and
Austrian domination over the nation.
Putting differences aside
Pope Francis, in his message to Archbishop Gadecki, recalls
the contributions Poland made to the “history of Christian Europe” prior to the
partitions of the eighteenth century. The Pope pays homage to the many sons of
Poland, whom he says “were ready to sacrifice their personal freedom, their own
good, and even their lives for their lost homeland”.
In quoting Saint John Paul II he reiterates the support
their faith offered when “after independence”, these same brothers “had to seek
unity despite differences, in order to rebuild the country together and defend
its borders.”
One hundred years of freedom
The Pope goes on to thank the Lord for “having supported
successive generations with His grace”, and for having brought to life their
hope of “regaining the freedom lost one hundred years earlier”.
He closes his message by taking up the prayer of Saint John
Paul II - whom he calls “a special witness of this century” - saying: “May the
care of Mary, Queen of Poland on Jasna Góra, always accompany Your Homeland and
all Poles! May God’s providence give the Polish nation peace and prosperity,
now and in the future!”
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