In an unanimously adopted resolution, Polish MPs described Popiełuszko as "one of the contemporary heroes of our freedom; a symbol of the defence of the freedom of conscience, human dignity and civic rights."
The resolution recalls that during martial law, imposed by Poland's communist regime in December 1981 to crush the Solidarity movement, Popiełuszko "offered wide-ranging assistance to the internees and publicly stood out in their defence."
The resolution adds that 40 years ago "this indomitable clergyman of freedom was brutally murdered by communist secret police officers."
Polish lawmakers expressed "respect for the fundamental civic values" that they said were Popiełuszko's "guiding force in life: truth, freedom and solidarity."
Earlier this month, the upper house of the Polish parliament, the Senate, honoured Popiełuszko's memory with a similar resolution.
In 2010, the Roman Catholic Church beatified Popiełuszko, declaring him a martyr. In the Catholic Church, beatification is one stage short of being recognised as a saint.
Some 23 million people have visited his grave at the Popiełuszko Shrine in Warsaw’s Żoliborz district, according to Polish parliamentarians.
(mk/gs)