Early Life and Calling: Born as Rajmund Kolbe in Poland in 1894, he entered the Franciscan Order at a young age, taking the name Maximilian. Deeply devoted to the Virgin Mary, he had a vision in which she offered him two crowns: one for martyrdom, the other for purity. He chose both. Maximilian’s zeal led him to establish the Militia Immaculatae (Army of Mary), a movement aimed at spreading devotion to Mary and combating evil through prayer and evangelization.
Ministry and Imprisonment: Ordained a priest, Maximilian’s ministry was characterized by his tireless efforts to use modern media for evangelization. He founded and ran a publishing house and radio station, promoting Catholic teachings. When World War II broke out, he continued his work, even providing shelter to refugees, including Jews. This led to his arrest by the Nazis in 1941 and imprisonment in Auschwitz.
Sacrifice and Martyrdom: In Auschwitz, Maximilian’s unwavering faith and compassion shone. When a prisoner escaped, the Nazis selected ten men to be starved to death as punishment. One of the chosen men, Franciszek Gajowniczek, cried out in despair for his wife and children. Maximilian volunteered to take his place. In the starvation bunker, he led the other condemned men in prayer and hymns, offering them comfort and hope. He was the last survivor, finally killed with a lethal injection on August 14, 1941.
Legacy and Sainthood: Maximilian Kolbe’s selfless act of sacrifice became a symbol of courage, love, and faith in the face of unimaginable evil. He was canonized as a saint by Pope John Paul II in 1982, recognized as a martyr of charity. His life and death continue to inspire countless people, reminding them of the transformative power of love and the ultimate victory of good over evil.
TOTALLY YOURS
(Prayer composed by St. Maximilian Kolbe)
Immaculate Conception, Mary, my Mother.
Live in me. Act in me. Speak in and through me.
Think your thoughts in my mind. Love, through my heart.
Give me your dispositions and feelings.
Teach, lead and guide me to Jesus.
Correct, enlighten and expand my thoughts and behavior.
Possess my soul.
Take over my entire personality and life.
Replace it with yourself.
Incline me to constant adoration and thanksgiving.
Pray in me and through me.
Let me live in you and keep me in this union always.
