Archbishop Wojciech Polak addresses human rights and Church formation

Archbishop Wojciech Polak, the Primate of Poland, has addressed several key social and religious issues, emphasizing that the right to life from conception is a fundamental human right upon which all other rights are based. Regarding abortion, he stated that while the Church must name evil, it also has a duty to offer mercy, accompaniment, and support to those experiencing trauma.

On the topic of end-of-life care, Polak argued that opposition to euthanasia must go beyond legislation to include a real commitment to being present for the elderly, sick, and lonely. He also touched upon Polish-Ukrainian relations, advocating for an open historical dialogue based on truth and responsibility—specifically regarding the Volhynia massacre—as a necessary foundation for true reconciliation.

Addressing the decline in priestly vocations, the Primate noted that the crisis lies with human responses rather than with God. He emphasized that the Church must not lower its standards for seminarians due to fewer candidates, asserting that the institution cannot afford irresponsible formation even if it results in fewer priests and parishes.