The exhibition pays tribute to the Solidarity priest whose unwavering commitment to truth and freedom cost him his life.
Curator Łukasz Kossowski explained that the exhibition's motto, "Truth and Freedom," is derived from Father Popiełuszko’s final homily, delivered in Bydgoszcz on October 19, 1984. On that day, he was abducted by three communist secret police officers and subsequently murdered.
"That homily," Kossowski noted, "contained the priest’s testament, with the two words 'truth' and 'freedom' central to Father Popiełuszko’s message."
The exhibition features a two-track narrative, juxtaposing excerpts from Popiełuszko’s homilies and statements with secret police reports. Documentary photographs are displayed alongside artworks inspired by his life, offering a profound reflection on his legacy.
Visitors can also view replicas of furniture and wall hangings from Popiełuszko’s family home in Okopy, north-eastern Poland, as well as recorded testimonies from his friends. A separate section highlights his travels in the United States and includes personal items such as a Bob Marley cassette he listened to during car journeys.
Father Popiełuszko emerged as a beacon of hope following the communist regime’s crackdown on Poland’s Solidarity movement and the imposition of martial law in December 1981. His unwavering faith and advocacy for human rights made him a symbol of resistance against oppression.
In recognition of his sacrifice, the Roman Catholic Church beatified Father Popiełuszko in 2010, declaring him a martyr. This year, October 19 will mark the 40th anniversary of his death.
The exhibition will run until November 3, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of Father Popiełuszko’s funeral, which was attended by an estimated one million people in 1984.
(mk/jh)
Source: IAR
