Today, the Church commemorates Saint Maximilian Kolbe, a Franciscan priest and martyr who gave his life in exchange for another prisoner at Auschwitz during World War II.
His remarkable act of charity and faith is a reminder of Christ’s words: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13). As we reflect on his witness, may we be inspired to live with courage, generosity, and unwavering trust in God.
Prayer of the Day
O God, who filled the Priest and Martyr Saint Maximilian Kolbe with a burning love for the Immaculate Virgin Mary and a zeal for souls,
grant, through his intercession, that we may love you above all things and serve our neighbor selflessly.
May his example of sacrificial love inspire us to bear witness to your truth and mercy in all that we do.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, forever and ever. Amen
Mass Readings of the Day
First Reading:
Joshua 3:7–10a, 11, 13–17
The Lord stops the Jordan River for Israel to cross into the Promised Land.
Responsorial Psalm:
Psalm 114:1–2, 3–4, 5–6
Response: Alleluia!
Gospel:
Matthew 18:21–19:1
Forgiveness without limit.
Saint of the Day — Saint Maximilian Kolbe (1894–1941)
Saint Maximilian Kolbe was a Polish Franciscan friar, missionary, and martyr. He founded the Militia Immaculatae, dedicated to promoting devotion to Mary and using modern media to evangelize. Arrested by the Nazis, he volunteered to take the place of a man condemned to die, offering himself as a witness to Christ’s love.
5 Interesting Facts About Saint Maximilian Kolbe
- He had a childhood vision of the Virgin Mary offering him two crowns — one white for purity and one red for martyrdom — and he accepted both.
- He established the world’s largest monastery at Niepokalanów, Poland, which housed over 700 friars.
- He used printing presses and radio broadcasts to spread Marian devotion and defend the faith.
- In Auschwitz, he ministered to fellow prisoners even while starving in the death cell.
- He is the patron saint of journalists, families, and those struggling with addiction.
