Have you ever heard of the unsung heroes from Poland who risked their lives to rescue Jews during the Holocaust? Manuela Tulli, a Vatican expert and journalist, shed light on this topic during a recent briefing in Lublin. The event, organized by the Heschel Center at the John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin (KUL), commemorated the National Day of Remembrance of Poles Who Rescued Jews.
On March 24, 1944, the Ulma family, along with the Jews they were sheltering, were tragically executed by the German gendarmerie. This day now holds significant meaning in Poland, marked as the National Day of Remembrance for Poles Who Rescued Jews Under German Occupation.
Another dark chapter in history unfolded on March 24, 1941, with the establishment of the Lublin Ghetto, symbolizing anti-Jewish hatred and segregation. Fr. Prof. Mirosław Kalinowski, the Rector of KUL, reflected on the city’s once diverse culture now torn apart by intolerance.
Acts of Courage and Determination
The commemorations in Lublin included a Mass at the archcathedral and an exhibition dedicated to the Ulma family. Fr. Prof. Kalinowski highlighted the bravery of those who risked their lives to save persecuted Jews, emphasizing the importance of remembering their sacrifices.
Little Known Abroad
Manuela Tulli emphasized the lack of awareness abroad about the heroic acts of Poles who rescued Jews, citing the example of the Ulma family. She shared how their story was brought to light in Italy, raising awareness about these forgotten heroes.
Heroic Women in Habits
Sister Dr. Monika Kupczewska highlighted the efforts of brave women, including Sister Marta Wołowska, who risked their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust. Despite the dangers they faced, these women from different religious congregations in Poland showed immense courage.
Unique Testimonies of Clergy Rescuing Jews
The Catholic University of Lublin’s efforts to preserve the memory of Jewish heritage include a two-volume monograph by Ryszard Tyndorf. This extensive work, “Wartime Rescue of Jews by the Polish Catholic Clergy,” features testimonies of Jews rescued by religious sisters and priests during the Holocaust.
Let’s honor the courage and selflessness of these forgotten heroes who risked everything to save others, a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of darkness.
Monika Stojowska / KUL
