Father Michał Rapacz, born in 1904 in Tenczyn, southern Poland, was ordained a priest in 1931 after completing his studies at the Kraków Seminary. During World War II, he served as a parish priest in Płoki, where he became known for his unwavering support of his parishioners and collaboration with the Home Army units resisting German occupation. His commitment extended beyond the war, as he continued to assist Home Army soldiers and spoke out against the communist regime's terror and anti-religious campaigns.
On the night of May 11, 1946, Father Rapacz's dedication to his faith and community led to a tragic end. Armed men abducted and brutally murdered him in a nearby forest. According to reports, his last words were an expression of surrender to God's will.
In Poland's Catholic community, Rapacz is remembered as a symbol of faith and resilience against oppression. The Archdiocese of Kraków notes that Rapacz was one of many Polish priests targeted by the communist regime.
Pope Francis' decision to authorize Father Rapacz's beatification recognizes his martyrdom "in hatred of the faith." The approval is a significant step in the canonization process within the Roman Catholic Church.
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Source: IAR
