Saint Maximilian Kolbe
Feast day: August 14
Martyr of charity at Auschwitz, Franciscan priest and apostle of the Immaculate.
Raymond Kolbe was born in 1894 in Poland. He entered the Franciscans, taking the name Maximilian, and devoted himself to Marian devotion and Catholic publishing.
He founded the Militia Immaculatae and worked in Japan and Poland, using media to evangelize.
In 1939, after the Nazi invasion, he was arrested and sent to Auschwitz.
In August 1941 he offered to die in place of Franciszek Gajowniczek, condemned to starve.
He remained serene during fourteen days of agony, consoling companions and celebrating Mass when possible.
He died on August 14, 1941. Canonized by John Paul II in 1982. His liturgical feast is August 14.
Dedicated prayer
To the martyr of charity at Auschwitz, we ask courage, love of neighbor, and trust in the Mother of God.
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